Pharmacy First launches in England

The new Pharmacy First Service will enable community pharmacists to complete episodes of care for patients without the need for a visit to a GP practice. In Devon, 202 of 207 pharmacies are signed up to deliver the service, which aims to free up GP appointments.

The following seven common conditions can now be assessed and treated by community pharmacists without a GP appointment or prescription:

• Sinusitis
• Sore throat
• Earache*
• Infected insect bite
• Impetigo
• Shingles
• Uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women (under the age of 65).