NHS service
Pharmacy First
Get assessed and treated for common conditions directly at Cotham Pharmacy — without waiting for a GP appointment.
See a Pharmacist — not a GP
Pharmacy First is an NHS service that allows our pharmacist to assess, advise and where clinically appropriate prescribe treatment for seven common conditions — without the need for a GP appointment.
Every patient is assessed individually by our team before any treatment is provided. Our team will determine whether you are eligible for the service and which treatment, if any, is appropriate for your symptoms. If you do not meet the criteria, we will advise you on the most appropriate next steps.
Please note: Walk in appointments are available subject to pharmacist availability. We recommend calling ahead on 0117 973 6580 to check before visiting. Some conditions may require a prescription charge — our team will advise at your consultation.
Conditions covered under Pharmacy First
Acute Sinusitis
Adults & children aged 12+Inflammation of the sinuses causing facial pain, blocked nose and headache. Our team will assess whether you are eligible and recommend appropriate treatment.
Sore Throat
Adults & children aged 5+Acute sore throat assessed using the FeverPAIN or Centor scoring system. Our team will assess whether you are eligible and determine if antibiotics are clinically appropriate.
Earache (Acute Otitis Media)
Children aged 1–17A common ear infection in children. Our team will assess whether your child is eligible and provide appropriate treatment where clinically indicated.
Otitis Externa (Outer Ear Infection)
Eligibility assessed at consultationInfection or inflammation of the outer ear canal. Our team will examine the ear and assess whether you are eligible for treatment.
Infected Insect Bites
Adults & children aged 1+Insect bites showing signs of bacterial infection. Our team will assess whether you are eligible and prescribe antibiotics where clinically appropriate.
Impetigo
Adults & children aged 1+A common bacterial skin infection. Our team will assess whether you are eligible and prescribe topical or oral antibiotics where clinically appropriate.
Shingles
Adults aged 18+Antiviral treatment for shingles. Most effective when started within 72 hours of the rash appearing. Our team will assess whether you are eligible at consultation.
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Women aged 16–64Uncomplicated UTI in women. Our team will assess whether you are eligible and prescribe antibiotics where clinically appropriate. Not suitable for pregnant women or recurrent UTIs.
What to expect
Call ahead or walk in
Walk in or call us on 0117 973 6580 to check availability. Service is subject to pharmacist availability on the day.
Eligibility assessment
Our team will assess whether you are eligible for the service based on your symptoms, age and medical history before any treatment is provided.
Treatment provided
If eligible, treatment is provided at the pharmacy on the same day. If not eligible, we will advise on the most appropriate next steps.
Prescription charges
Some patients may be subject to a standard NHS prescription charge. Our team will advise you before any treatment is provided.
Walk in or call ahead
No online booking for this service. Walk in or call us to check availability.
Some treatments may be subject to a standard NHS prescription charge.
Don't wait for a GP — see us today.
Assessment and treatment for common conditions. Walk in or call ahead.
Call us on 0117 973 6580.