The new Pharmacy First pilot now enables staff visiting Lincoln Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) to refer patients with certain common conditions directly to their local community pharmacy for treatment
Conditions eligible for referral
The scheme allows UTC staff to offer people with one of seven common conditions a same-day appointment at a nearby pharmacy, instead of having them wait at the centre. These conditions include:
- Sinusitis
- Sore throat
- Earache
- Infected insect bite
- Impetigo (a skin infection)
- Shingles
- Uncomplicated urinary tract infections (women aged 16–64)
The aim is to give patients quicker, more convenient access to treatment, while increasing access and capacity within Lincoln UTC. This will help to keep urgent care services free for patients presenting with more serious or complex health needs.
The role of community pharmacists
Community pharmacists are highly trained healthcare professionals. They can provide advice, treatment, and, where appropriate, prescribe medicines for these conditions without the need for a GP or UTC appointment.
Dr Sunil Hindocha, Medical Director at NHS Lincolnshire Integrated Care Board (ICB), said:
“Pharmacy First is about making sure patients get the right care, in the right place, at the right time. By working more closely with local pharmacies, we can ease pressure on urgent care services and ensure people with serious health needs are seen quickly, while also making it more convenient for those with minor illnesses.”
Staff will give referred patients the details of a local participating pharmacy and advise them to present themselves there. The pharmacist will provide a consultation in a private room and offer a prescription only medicine if clinically appropriate.
The initiative is part of a wider NHS programme to expand the role of community pharmacies, making it easier for people to access advice and treatment close to home.
For more information about Pharmacy First, visit Pharmacies – Lincolnshire ICB.