People in Portsmouth will be able to get faster, more convenient treatment for migraines, acne, ear infections, rhinitis and scabies at participating local pharmacies from this autumn, without needing to see their GP first.
The expansion of the NHS Pharmacy First scheme means residents will be able to walk into a participating high street pharmacy and get on-the-spot treatment for these five conditions from a qualified pharmacist, rather than booking a GP appointment.
Over 30 pharmacies in Portsmouth currently offer Pharmacy First services, Amanda Martin is pressing for as many local pharmacies as possible to sign up quickly.
Since launching in February 2024, Pharmacy First has delivered over 14 million consultations across England, including 2 million for sore throats and 1.7 million for urinary tract infections.
The move comes as the NHS steps up preparations for what could be another record-breaking winter, following the three busiest months for A&E ever recorded between May and July this year. Freeing up pharmacy capacity for common conditions is intended to ease pressure on GPs and A&E departments so they can focus on patients who need them most.
Amanda Martin, MP for Portsmouth North, said: “People here are fed up with the scramble for a routine GP appointment for something minor. This change means residents can walk into their local pharmacy and get treated on the spot for conditions like migraines and ear infections – no appointment needed. It’s a practical change that will save people time and help take pressure off our NHS this winter.”
Yvette Cooper, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care said: “Pharmacy First is helping millions of people across the country get faster, easier care, closer to home already. Being able to go to your local pharmacy for more everyday conditions will make it easier for people across the country to get advice and care when they need it.
“Community pharmacies are vital to shifting care into the community, and this initiative makes the most of our skilled pharmacists so patients can get on-the-spot treatment. It also helps ease pressures on other parts of the NHS with early intervention”.
