Think ‘Pharmacy First’ for Fast NHS Treatment

Residents across Lincolnshire are being encouraged to visit their local pharmacy for quick and easy treatment of common health conditions, thanks to the NHS ‘Pharmacy First’ service. Available without an appointment, this convenient service provides expert healthcare advice and treatment from trusted pharmacists.

Under the scheme, people of all ages can receive fast NHS treatment for conditions including:

Green square graphic with the NHS logo in the top right hand corner. White text on a green background reads 'Next Time Think 'Pharmacy First' Walk In, No Appointment Needed!'. Underneath this in green text reads 'Get Fast NHS Treatment at Your Local Pharmacy' Text below this in white reads 'I went in today, spoke with the pharmacist at the counter, who then took me into the consulting room. They went through various questions, antibiotics prescribed, dispensed and first dose taken all within 20 minutes. Excellent service.'
  • Sinusitis (Aged 12+) – Blocked nose, headaches, facial pain
  • Sore Throat (Aged 5+) – Pain, swelling, difficulty swallowing
  • Ear Infections (Aged 1-17) – Ear pain, fever, discharge
  • Infected Insect Bites (Aged 1+) – Swelling, redness, pus
  • Impetigo (Aged 1+) – Red sores, blisters, crusting skin
  • Shingles (Aged 18+) – Painful rash, blisters, burning sensation
  • Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) (Women aged 16-64) – Pain when urinating, frequent need to pee

Why Choose Pharmacy First?

  • Walk in, No Appointment Needed – Get the help you need and carry on with your day.
  • Flexible for Busy Lives – No need to take time off work or wait for a GP appointment.
  • Ideal for Parents – Get fast treatment for common childhood illnesses.
  • Trusted NHS Service – Pharmacists are trained healthcare professionals.
  • Free Prescriptions – Available for those eligible under NHS exemption criteria.

NHS Lincolnshire ICB is urging residents to make use of this service to help relieve pressure on GP surgeries and urgent care services while ensuring they receive the right care at the right time.

Dr Sunil Hindocha, Medical Director at NHS Lincolnshire ICB, said:

“Pharmacies are a fantastic first point of call for a wide range of minor conditions. The Pharmacy First service means you can get professional healthcare advice and treatment quickly, without the need for an appointment. We encourage everyone in Lincolnshire to think ‘Pharmacy First’ and make the most of this valuable NHS service.”

The service is available at participating pharmacies across the county, to find your nearest participating pharmacy, visit www.nhs.uk/service-search/pharmacy/find-a-pharmacy/