avant, Hampshire – November 2026

Accessing healthcare advice quickly and conveniently is important for local communities. The NHS Pharmacy First service is helping eligible patients across England receive professional advice and treatment for seven common health conditions directly from participating community pharmacies, without always needing to book a GP appointment first.

Southdowns Pharmacy Group is highlighting the benefits of this service to help residents across Havant, Emsworth and Rowlands Castle understand how their local pharmacy can support their healthcare needs.

Introduced in January 2024, NHS Pharmacy First enables trained pharmacists to assess patients with certain common conditions, recommend suitable treatments and supply prescription-only medicines, including antibiotics, where clinically appropriate.

The seven conditions covered by the service include sinusitis, sore throat, earache, infected insect bites, impetigo, shingles and uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs). Each condition has specific eligibility and age requirements, which pharmacists consider during the consultation.

Patients can approach a participating pharmacy directly for an assessment under the seven clinical pathways. During the consultation, the pharmacist will discuss symptoms, medical history and current medication before recommending the most appropriate course of action. If additional medical attention is required, the patient can be referred to another healthcare professional.

The service is designed to make healthcare more accessible while helping patients understand the support available through their local community pharmacy. Eligible NHS Pharmacy First consultations are free, although standard NHS prescription charges may apply to medicines supplied, depending on the patient's exemption status.

Southdowns Pharmacy Group continues to support local residents by providing accessible pharmacy services and professional advice. Through its branches in Havant, Emsworth and Rowlands Castle, the group aims to help patients make informed decisions about their healthcare and understand when pharmacy support may be appropriate.

Residents who want to learn more about the service can visit the Southdowns Pharmacy Group website or contact their nearest branch to ask about Pharmacy First availability.

For further information, visit:
https://southdownspharmacygroup.co.uk/pharmacy-first/

About Southdowns Pharmacy Group

Southdowns Pharmacy Group is an independent, family-run pharmacy group serving communities across Hampshire. With branches in Bosmere, Davies, Emsworth and Rowlands Castle, the group provides NHS and private pharmacy services, professional healthcare advice and support to local patients.