NHS Pharmacy First Scotland

Service providing expert help in the community

Background

The Scottish Government committed to develop and implement a redesigned minor ailment and common conditions service available to all.

NHS Pharmacy First Scotland provides support for people living in Scotland, those registered with a Scottish GP Practice, residents in care homes and care settings, people who are experiencing homelessness and gypsy travellers.

What is Pharmacy First Scotland?

NHS Pharmacy First Scotland will allow community pharmacies to give people expert help for treating conditions such as sore throats, earache and cold sores, along with common clinical conditions such as urinary tract infections (UTIs). Pharmacy teams offers advice, treatment or referral to other healthcare teams if required. 

This service will help people access the right care in the right place, without having to go to their GP practice or local Accident and Emergency Department for non-urgent treatment.

Who can use it?

Everyone who is registered with a GP practice in Scotland, or who lives in Scotland, is encouraged to use their local pharmacy when they have a minor illness or common condition.

Accident and Emergency Departments remain open for emergency care, with public health measures in place to protect staff and patients.

More information

Find your local pharmacy

Use Scotland’s Service Directory to find your local pharmacy.