News and media releases from the Surrey Heartlands area
If you have some news to share, would like to see us feature a patient story or simply have a question, then feel free to get in touch with us.
Pharmacy First turns two and goes from strength to strength
Pharmacy First is celebrating two years of helping people across Surrey get treated quickly and conveniently, often without needing to wait for a GP appointment.
The service allows local pharmacists to assess, advise and provide treatment for seven common conditions: sore throats, ear infections, sinusitis, impetigo, infected insect bites, shingles, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs).
For Dorking resident Millie, Pharmacy First offered fast reassurance when she
developed a sore throat.
After contacting her GP, she was seen the same day in a private consultation at her local pharmacy and received the treatment she needed within
minutes.
Pharmacy First also supports minor illnesses such as coughs and colds, sore eyes, tummy upsets, headaches, skin rashes, sleeping difficulties and more.
For a minor illness, your GP practice may refer you to a Community Pharmacist for a same day consultation.
Pharmacists provide advice, recommend over-the-counter treatments if needed, and help arrange urgent GP care for more serious symptoms.
Consultation outcomes are sent securely to the patient’s GP.
Linda Honey, Director of Pharmacy at NHS Surrey Heartlands, said:
People can access Pharmacy First either by visiting their local pharmacy or through referrals from NHS 111, the NHS App, their GP practice, urgent treatment centres, emergency departments and 999.
Pharmacists offer expert advice in a private consultation and, where clinically appropriate, supply NHS medicines or refer patients for further care.
Julia Powell, Chief Executive Officer, Community Pharmacy Surrey & Sussex, added:
I’m delighted that community pharmacists are supporting the Pharmacy First campaign, running 2–22 February, helping to promote this service to the public.
Your local pharmacy can be the first place to go for expert advice and treatment for common conditions and minor illnesses.
Across Surrey, 97% of community pharmacies provide the service, offering fast, convenient advice and treatment in private consultations.
Find out more about Pharmacy First
In this one-minute video clip, Jay Amin, a local pharmacist in Surrey, explains why it’s a great idea to ‘Think Pharmacy First’ when you’re feeling unwell.