Pharmacy First Scheme launched on 1 April 2015 to help reduce pressure on GP appointments and avoidable A&E Attendances
Did you know?
If you don't pay prescription charges you can get medicines free from your local pharmacy without needing to visit your GP.
What is the Pharmacy First scheme?
Pharmacists are highly trained experts in medicines. The Pharmacy First scheme gives you quick and local access to advice and treatment from the pharmacist at your local pharmacy about common illnesses. You don't need to wait to see your doctor and you don't need an appointment.
If you don't pay for your prescriptions the pharmacist will be able to give you medicines to treat the conditions listed below and they will be free.
What treatments are available on the scheme?
The Pharmacy First scheme covers advice and treatment for the conditions below:
Allergies | Fever | Nappy rash |
Athlete's foot | Hay fever | Piles |
Cold sores | Headache | Sore throat |
Conjunctivitis | Head lice | Sprains and strains |
Constipation | Insect bites and stings | Teething |
Coughs and colds | Itching due to chickenpox | Threadworm |
Diarrhoea | Minor burns and scalds | Vaginal thrush |
Earwax | Mouth ulcers | Indigestion |
Who can use this service?
Everyone can get free advice from any pharmacist but to be able to get free medicines you must be registered with a Southwark GP and entitled to free prescriptions.
If you normally pay for your prescriptions you can still get free advice from any pharmacy but you will still be charged the retail price of any medicines provided.
Can I go to any pharmacy?
Most pharmacies in Southwark offer the Pharmacy First scheme. Look out for posters in the pharmacy, ask your GP's reception staff or view Pharmacy First: Participating Pharmacies
For Further Information on the Scheme and updates visit: Southwark CCG website