Community pharmacy

Community pharmacy

Home » Community pharmacy

Pharmacists can help address minor health issues such as an ear infection, UTI or an insect bite. They can offer one-on-one, confidential consultations for you and your family. More information on other minor conditions your pharmacist can help with can be found on our Pharmacy First webpage.

If you take prescription medication, be sure to order any repeat prescriptions in advance. It’s generally recommended to order repeat prescriptions seven days before they are needed.

If you’re planning to go away for the weekend, don’t forget to pack your prescription medicine.

Pharmacists

Pharmacists are experts in medicines who can help you with minor health concerns. As qualified healthcare professionals, they can offer clinical advice and over-the-counter medicines for a range of minor illnesses, such as coughs, colds, sore throats, tummy trouble and aches and pains.

Pharmacists have the right training to make sure you get the help you need, they will tell you if you need to see a GP, nurse or other healthcare professional.

How can a pharmacy help you?

  • Blood pressure checks

    Blood pressure checks

    If you are aged 40 and over and living in England, you can get a free blood pressure check at your local pharmacy. Find out more.

  • Find a pharmacy that offers NHS flu vaccination

    Find a pharmacy that offers NHS flu vaccination

    If you’re eligible for a free flu vaccination you can visit a local pharmacy to get yours.

  • Help with your medicines

    Help with your medicines

    Pharmacists can answer your questions on prescription and over-the-counter medicines.

    You can also collect your prescriptions from your local pharmacy. You can now order repeat prescriptions from the comfort of your own home via the NHS App. Ask your local pharmacist or your GP practice for help on setting the app up.

  • Minor illnesses

    Minor illnesses

    Pharmacies can give treatment advice about a range of common conditions and minor injuries. Find out more on our Pharmacy First webpage.

  • Disposing of old medicines

    Disposing of old medicines

    If medicine is out of date, unwanted, or some of it is left over after you have stopped taking it, do not put it in your household bin or flush it down the toilet. Instead, take it to your pharmacy to be disposed of safely.

  • Other services that may be available at your local pharmacy

    Other services that may be available at your local pharmacy

    • Emergency contraception
    • asthma inhaler use and advice
    • chlamydia screening and treatment
    • stop smoking service
    • blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar testing
    • substance misuse service, including needle and syringe exchange schemes
    • weight management service
    • flu vaccination.