How to get medical help at a pharmacy
Pharmacies in London are a first line of defence for minor health issues. Here’s how you can utilise pharmacy services effectively:
- Check Your Symptoms: If you have minor ailments like a cold, cough, minor rash, or need emergency contraception, a pharmacy can help.
- Find a Pharmacy: Use the NHS pharmacy finder tool online to locate the nearest pharmacy with consultation services.
- Consult with the Pharmacist: Explain your symptoms to the pharmacist. They can offer medical advice, recommend over-the-counter medications, and provide guidance on whether you should see a GP. Many pharmacies have a private consultation room where you can discuss your health concerns without being overheard.
- Prescription Services: For certain conditions, pharmacists can supply medicines without a GP prescription under a Patient Group Direction (PGD). This includes treatments for conditions like:
- Sore throat
- Sinusitis
- Earache
- Infected insect bite
- Impetigo (a bacterial skin infection)
- Shingles
- Uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women.
- Repeat Prescriptions: If you’re on regular medication, your GP can arrange repeat prescriptions that you can collect directly from your pharmacy.
- Medication Reviews: If you’re taking multiple medications, ask your pharmacist for a Medication Use Review (MUR). This is a free service to discuss your medicines, how they work, and any side effects.