Pharmacists are one of the key Allied Health Professionals (AHPs) in the NHS.
All pharmacists are highly trained health professionals, who study for at least five years.
The main role of a pharmacist is to check and supply your medications. You generally do not need an appointment to see a pharmacist and they may be more available to see you than a GP.
They are also a good place to go for advice on how NHS works generally – i.e. where to go for what. This is especially true for those new to the country.
But they can do a lot more for you.
Here are some of the other things they can do:
- Offer advice and treatment for minor illnesses such as coughs, colds, earache and sprains
- Offer advice on staying well and preventing disease
- Offer advice on maintaining good sexual health
- Help to quit smoking
- Give personalised support to get the most from your medicines. You can ask for a medication review at your local pharmacy
- Provide emergency prescriptions if you are about to run out of tablets
- Give vaccinations, such as the flu jab and the COVID-19 vaccine.
Training
Pharmacists have the right training to make sure you get the help you need, even if your symptoms suggest something serious. They can tell you whether you need to see a GP, nurse or other health professional.
Opening times
Many pharmacies are open late and at weekends. You do not need an appointment, and they are very often just a short walk from your house.
Privacy
Most pharmacies also have a consultation room where you can discuss issues privately with them.
Other information
In some GP surgeries you can arrange to see a clinical pharmacist. They can diagnose illnesses and provide treatment, and you can also arrange to see them for a medication review.
