Pharmacy First
Pharmacists can suggest treatments that do not need a prescription for a range of conditions.
Most pharmacies can also offer prescription medicine for some conditions, without you needing to see a GP or make an appointment. This is called Pharmacy First.
Conditions they can help with are:
- uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) for female patients with NON-recurrent symptoms, ages 16-64
- impetigo, age 1 year and over
- infected insect bites, age 1 year and over
- earache, ages 1-17
- shingles, age 18 years and over
- sinusitis, age 12 years and over
- sore throat, age 5 years and over
They can also advise on medicine that you can buy without a prescription.
Many pharmacies are open until late and at weekends. You do not need an appointment.
Most pharmacies have a private consultation room where you can discuss issues with pharmacy staff.
Physiotherapy
You do not need a GP letter to be referred to a physiotherapist. Click here to refer yourself.
Podiatry
You do not need a GP letter to be referred to a podiatrist. Click here to refer yourself.
Sick notes
You can self-certify if you’ve been ill for less than a week using this form.
Tick bites
Please follow this link for more information on tick bites and how to safely remove them at home:
Tick bites | NHS inform
Tick season is usually between March and October but it may last longer. This is because wet weather and warmer temperatures make ticks active for longer in the year.
Ticks are usually found in areas with mammals and birds such as:
- woodland
- moorland
- grassy areas
- gardens
- parks
A small number of ticks carry the bacteria that can cause Lyme disease. Being bitten doesn’t mean you’ll definitely be infected. But, it’s important to be aware of the risk and speak to a GP if you start to feel unwell. For more information, visit: Lyme disease | NHS inform