Pharmacists in England can treat seven common ailments

Since January 2024, pharmacists in England can treat seven common ailments directly, reducing the need for GP appointments. This initiative, called Pharmacy First, allows pharmacists to assess and prescribe medications for specific conditions. The conditions include impetigo, infected insect bites, earache, sore throat, sinusitis, urinary tract infections in women, and shingles. Patients can visit pharmacies for consultations and receive appropriate treatment based on their age. Pharmacists will also update patients' GP health records but will not share information with others. Patients are advised to check with their local pharmacy before visiting for treatment.