NHS Pharmacy
First Services
Get fast, free treatment for 7 common conditions from our trained pharmacists — without waiting for a GP appointment. Available to all NHS patients.
Pharmacy First — 7 Conditions We Treat
Walk in to any MediCare branch for assessment and treatment. If we can't help directly, we'll refer you to the right service.
Sinusitis
Facial pain, blocked or runny nose lasting more than 10 days.
Treatment:
Saline nasal spray, decongestants, advice on self-care and when to escalate.
Sore Throat
Painful swallowing, inflamed tonsils, difficulty speaking.
Treatment:
Throat lozenges, pain relief, antibiotics if bacterial infection confirmed.
Earache (Otitis Media)
Ear pain in children aged 1–17, often following a cold.
Treatment:
Pain relief, monitoring, antibiotic eardrops where appropriate.
Infected Insect Bite
Redness, warmth, swelling around an insect bite.
Treatment:
Topical or oral antibiotics, wound care advice, antihistamines.
Impetigo
Blistering, crusty, itchy skin sores — highly contagious.
Treatment:
Antibiotic cream or tablets, hygiene advice to prevent spread.
Shingles
Painful rash, blistering on one side of the body.
Treatment:
Antiviral medication (best within 72 hours of onset), pain relief.
Uncomplicated UTI (Women)
Burning urination, frequent urge to pass urine, pelvic discomfort.
Treatment:
Antibiotic prescription, hydration advice, urine dip test in pharmacy.
No Appointment Needed
Just walk in to any MediCare pharmacy. Our pharmacists will assess you in a private consultation room.
Other Free NHS Services
NHS Flu Vaccination
Free to eligible groups including over 65s, pregnant women, and those with long-term conditions.
Smoking Cessation
Free NRT products and behavioural support via the NHS Stop Smoking Service.
Blood Pressure Check
Free hypertension monitoring for adults over 40 as part of NHS preventive care.
Contraceptive Pill
Free oral contraception supply and counselling available at our pharmacy.
Needle Exchange
Confidential needle and syringe programme for harm reduction.
Palliative Care Dispensing
Priority dispensing for patients in palliative care, including urgent out-of-hours access.
How It Works
Walk In
No appointment needed. Visit any MediCare branch during opening hours.
Consultation
A pharmacist will see you in our private consultation room to assess your condition.
Treatment
Receive treatment, medication, and advice on the spot — or a referral if needed.