West Heath Surgery is pleased to work closely with our local community pharmacies to improve access to timely, high-quality healthcare and support patients in receiving the right care, in the right place, at the right time.
Pharmacy First Service
Under the NHS Pharmacy First service, your local pharmacist can now provide expert assessment, clinical advice, and, where appropriate, supply prescription-only medicines for a range of common conditions. This helps patients receive convenient, same-day care while supporting faster recovery and reducing the need for GP appointments when they are not necessary.
Our reception team may ask you a few questions when you contact the practice. This helps us ensure you are directed to the most appropriate healthcare professional for your needs, which may include referral to a community pharmacy.
Conditions eligible for Pharmacy First referral
If you contact the surgery with one of the following conditions and meet NHS England eligibility criteria, you may be offered a consultation with a local pharmacist:
- Earache (1–17 years)
- Impetigo (1 year and over)
- Infected insect bites (1 year and over)
- Shingles (18 years and over)
- Sinusitis (12 years and over)
- Sore throat (5 years and over)
- Uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) (women aged 16–64 years)
Patients who fall outside these age ranges or criteria may need to be seen by a GP. However, pharmacists can still offer valuable advice and recommend appropriate over-the-counter treatments for self-care.
Additional conditions pharmacists can support
Community pharmacists are also able to offer clinical advice and treatment recommendations for a wide range of minor illnesses, including:
- Aches and pains – such as back pain, headache, and period pain
- Coughs, colds, flu, and infections – including nasal congestion and fever
- Ear care – such as earwax build-up
- Eye conditions – including conjunctivitis and styes
- Hay fever – when symptoms are not controlled by standard over-the-counter treatments
- Skin conditions and rashes – such as athlete’s foot, cold sores, mild eczema, or psoriasis
- Digestive symptoms – including constipation, diarrhoea, and indigestion
What to expect from a pharmacy consultation
During your consultation, the pharmacist will assess your symptoms, offer clinical advice, and support self-care where appropriate. If needed, they may supply treatment, including prescription-only medicines, under the NHS Pharmacy First scheme.
If your condition requires further assessment, the pharmacist will refer you back to your GP or to another appropriate service, such as urgent care or hospital.
Your records and confidentiality
With your consent, relevant information from your pharmacy consultation will be securely shared with your GP practice to ensure continuity of care. All consultations are carried out in line with strict NHS confidentiality standards.