Boots Launches NHS Pharmacy First Service in England in Major Change to Care for Minor Ailments

Boots stores in England now offer access to advice and treatment, including some prescription-only medicines, for seven common conditions as part of the NHS Pharmacy First Service.
From today, patients do not need a GP appointment or prescription to get treatment for sinusitis, sore throat, earache, infected insect bite, impetigo, shingles, or an uncomplicated urinary tract infection in women*.
Instead, they can go to their local Boots store where they can speak to a pharmacist, who can provide advice and treatment if appropriate. This may be an over-the-counter medicine or a prescription-only medicine, depending on the clinical needs of the patient. If the patient needs additional support, the pharmacist will refer them to a GP or another healthcare provider.
No appointment is needed and most Boots stores offer a private consultation room in the pharmacy area for confidential discussions about patients’ health concerns.