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Key Takeaways
✔ Pharmacy First allows you to access NHS treatment for common conditions without a GP appointment.
✔ Walk in or book — no referral needed. Our pharmacists can assess, advise, and prescribe where appropriate.
✔ The service covers seven common conditions, including sore throats, sinusitis, UTIs, and shingles.
✔ Eligible patients can receive prescription-strength medicines directly from our pharmacy team.
✔ Pharmacy First helps reduce pressure on GP surgeries, freeing up appointments for those who need them most.
✔ The service is free to NHS patients — you pay nothing for the consultation itself.
What is the Pharmacy First Service?
Introduced in January 2024, the NHS Pharmacy First service is a groundbreaking initiative that empowers community pharmacists to clinically assess and treat patients presenting with seven specific conditions. Rather than visiting your GP, you can come directly to us for expert advice and, if clinically appropriate, receive a prescription — all in one visit. This is a huge step forward in making healthcare more convenient, efficient, and patient-centred across England.
Pharmacists are highly trained healthcare professionals who complete years of rigorous education and clinical training. Pharmacy First taps into that expertise, ensuring that for certain common ailments, you receive evidence-based care quickly and with minimal disruption to your day. Whether you’re a busy parent, a working professional, or simply someone who finds it difficult to get a GP appointment, this service was designed with you in mind.
Which Conditions are Covered by Pharmacy First?
The Pharmacy First service covers seven common conditions, each with specific eligibility criteria based on age and, in some cases, gender. The table below gives a clear overview of what we can treat at Luxtons Pharmacy in Exeter:
| Condition | Eligible Age Group | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Sinusitis | 12 years and over | Available |
| Sore Throat | 5 years and over | Available |
| Acute Otitis Media (Ear Infection) | 1 to 17 years | Available |
| Infected Insect Bites | 1 year and over | Available |
| Impetigo | 1 year and over | Available |
| Shingles | 18 years and over | Available |
| Uncomplicated Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) | Women aged 16–64 years | Available |
If you’re unsure whether your symptoms fall within these categories, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our friendly team is always happy to advise you on the most appropriate course of action.
How Does the Pharmacy First Consultation Work?
The process is straightforward and designed to be as seamless as possible. When you arrive at Luxtons Pharmacy, you’ll be invited into a private consultation room where one of our pharmacists will take a full clinical history, review your symptoms, and — where clinically appropriate — supply a prescription-strength medicine or refer you to your GP or another healthcare professional if needed. There is no lengthy paperwork or lengthy wait; most consultations take just 10–15 minutes.
If you are referred to us by your GP surgery or NHS 111, you can also walk in directly with that referral. Either way, our team will ensure you leave with a clear plan of action and the right treatment for your needs.
Not sure if your condition qualifies? Call our team today for guidance.
Why Choose Luxtons Pharmacy for Pharmacy First?
As a family-run pharmacy serving Exeter since 1927, we bring nearly a century of trust and community care to everything we do. Our pharmacists are not only clinically expert — they’re genuinely invested in the health and wellbeing of the people they serve. When you visit us under the Pharmacy First scheme, you’re not just a number on a list; you’re a valued member of our local community receiving personalised, compassionate care.
We understand that health concerns can feel urgent and stressful, which is why we’ve made it our mission to provide fast, accessible, and high-quality care right here on Cowick Street. Our private consultation rooms provide a confidential and comfortable setting where you can discuss your symptoms openly and without embarrassment.
Frequently Asked Questions
To help you feel confident about using the Pharmacy First service, we’ve answered some of the questions we hear most often from our patients in Exeter.
Do I need a GP referral to use the Pharmacy First service?
No, you do not need a GP referral to access the Pharmacy First service at our pharmacy. You can simply walk in, and our pharmacist will assess whether your condition falls within the scope of the service.
Is the Pharmacy First consultation free?
Yes, the consultation itself is completely free to NHS patients. If a prescription is issued, standard NHS prescription charges apply, unless you are exempt.
What happens if the pharmacist cannot treat my condition under Pharmacy First?
If your condition falls outside the scope of the service or requires further investigation, our pharmacist will signpost you to the appropriate healthcare provider. This may include your GP, NHS 111, or in urgent cases, A&E.
Can children use the Pharmacy First service?
Yes, several conditions covered by Pharmacy First are suitable for children, including ear infections (ages 1–17), sore throats (ages 5 and over), and infected insect bites (ages 1 and over). A parent or guardian should accompany any child attending the consultation.
How long does a Pharmacy First consultation take?
Most consultations last approximately 10 to 15 minutes and take place in our private consultation room. We aim to see patients promptly, though there may occasionally be a short wait during busy periods.
Will my GP be informed if I use the Pharmacy First service?
Yes, as part of the NHS Pharmacy First service, a record of your consultation and any treatment provided will be shared with your GP to ensure continuity of care. Your privacy and data are handled in line with NHS data protection standards.
Your Health, Our Priority
At Luxtons Pharmacy in Exeter, we believe that accessing healthcare shouldn’t be a barrier — it should be a gateway. The NHS Pharmacy First service is transforming the way communities like ours receive care, and we’re thrilled to be part of that change. Whether you have a sore throat that won’t quit, a painful ear infection, or any of the other conditions we treat, our doors are open and our team is ready to help. Don’t wait — your health matters, and so does your time – book a consultation today.
