NHS England is broadening access to pharmacist-led treatment for common ailments this autumn, adding five conditions to an existing list of seven treatable in community pharmacies. The new conditions eligible for direct pharmacy care include low-frequency migraines in adults, hay fever or allergic rhinitis in children, ear infections in adults, mild to moderate acne in young people and adults, and mild skin infections and scabies. Pharmacists can already prescribe for sore throat, sinusitis, earache, insect bites, impetigo, shingles, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections.
NHS England has framed the expansion as a measure to reduce demand on general practitioners and accident and emergency departments while ensuring faster access to care for routine conditions. A limited number of community pharmacies will initially offer treatment for the five new conditions, with plans for gradual expansion to thousands of locations across England over time. Patients can access pharmacy services through NHS111 referrals, GP recommendations, or by visiting their local chemist directly.
The Pharmacy First scheme, which launched in 2024, has reportedly generated 14 million consultations, including two million for sore throats and 1.7 million for urinary tract infections. The Migraine Trust expressed support for the expansion, noting it represents an improved care pathway for patients seeking migraine management. However, pharmacy organizations have raised concerns about funding levels, with the National Pharmacy Association stating that government resources do not adequately cover the expanded workload.
This development aligns with similar initiatives already operating in other parts of the United Kingdom, with Scotland’s established scheme serving as a model. Scottish pharmacies can currently treat patients for 27 different conditions, while Northern Ireland and Wales maintain comparable systems enabling pharmacist prescribing for designated patient conditions.
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