12 new conditions pharmacist can treat instead of your GP

Your local pharmacist may be the new go-to for these conditions

The Pharmacy First scheme comes as an alternative to the traditional process of treatment for certain conditions, aiming to ease the burden on GP surgeries and A&E departments.

NHS data showed that June exceeded its average patient capacity at 81,000, which was overshadowed by the record 2.5 million visits in July.

The overcrowding in hospitals and GP surgeries resulted in many patients faced delays exceeding 12 hours.

Burnham wanted to come in aid to people a little closer to home, in contrast to setting appointments with their GP, stating people were “fed up with the scramble for routine appointments".

The PM said: "For 5 more common conditions, you’ll be able to walk into your local pharmacy and get treated on the spot.

"This is the change families will feel in their day-to-day lives as we build a better Britain. 

“Treating people closer to home means catching problems earlier, easing pressure on GPs and A&E, and giving people back precious time."

The Pharmacy First scheme started in 2024, which included seven conditions for which pharmacists could treat you.

Now with 12 total conditions, the government hopes to lift the burden on NHS sectors.

"Pharmacists can offer advice on a range of illnesses, such as coughs, colds, sore throats, ear infections and aches and pains,” said the NHS in a statement.

"They can also give advice about medicines. This includes how to use your medicine, worries about side effects or any other questions you have. 

“If they cannot help you themselves, they can refer you to a GP or other health professional."

What are the 12 conditions that your pharmacists can assist you with?

1. Migraines - low frequency migraines in adults
2. Allergies - hay fever or allergic rhinitis in children
3. Ear infections 
4. Acne - mild to moderate acne in teenagers and adults
5. Skin infections - for mild skin conditions and scabies
6. Sore throat - in adults and children aged 5 years and older
7. Sinusitis - in adults and children aged 12 years and older
8. Earache -iIn children and teenagers aged 1 to 17 years
9. Insect bites - in adults and children aged 1 year and older
10. Impetigo - in adult and children aged 1 year and older
11. Shingles - in adults aged 18 years and older
12. Uncomplicated UTIs - in women aged 16 to 64 years