Boots launches NHS Pharmacy First service in England

Boots will now be offering the NHS Pharmacy First Service service in all its stores in England.

The move means that customers will be able to access advice and treatment, including some prescription-only medicines, for seven common conditions without the need for a GP appointment or prescription. The conditions include sinusitis, sore throat, earache, infected insect bite, impetigo, shingles, or an uncomplicated urinary tract infection in women.

Under the new offering, Boots pharmacists will provide advice and treatment if appropriate. This may include the offer of an over-the-counter medicine or a prescription-only medicine, depending on the clinical needs of the patient. Any medicines supplied by the pharmacist will be recorded in the patient’s NHS record, which GPs have access to.

In addition, most Boots stores will offer a private consultation room in the pharmacy area for confidential discussions about patients’ health concerns if necessary.

If the patient needs additional support, the pharmacist will refer them to a GP or another healthcare provider.

Seb James, managing director of Boots UK and ROI, said: “The launch of Pharmacy First in England is good for patients, pharmacy teams and GPs and follows the success of similar initiatives in Scotland and Wales.

“The service makes it quicker and easier for patients to access the advice, care and treatment they need, allows our pharmacy team members to further utilise their professional skills and reduces pressures on GP surgeries. It is one of the most significant changes in how we can serve our customers and patients in our 175-year history.”

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