NHS-funded services available at our branches
The service, aimed at identifying high blood pressure in adults aged 40 and over, involves a pharmacist checking your blood pressure in a private consultation room. If your blood pressure is outside the normal range, the pharmacist will provide advice, may offer a 24-hour monitor for more detailed readings, and can refer you to your GP if needed.
The NHS Pharmacy Contraception Service is a free NHS service where you can get the oral contraceptive pill (the pill) from a community pharmacy, either for the first time or for a repeat supply. You can self-refer by walking into a participating pharmacy, be referred by your GP or a sexual health clinic, or be identified as suitable by the pharmacist. The service includes a confidential consultation to ensure clinical appropriateness and provide ongoing monitoring, with necessary checks like blood pressure and BMI.
Hormonal EC (Emergency Contraception) pills, also known as the "morning after pill," are hormonal medications taken after unprotected sex or contraception failure to prevent pregnancy by delaying or preventing ovulation. There are two main types: levonorgestrel (e.g., Levonelle), which is effective for up to 72 hours (3 days) after sex, and ulipristal acetate (e.g., ellaOne), which is effective for up to 120 hours (5 days). The sooner the pill is taken, the more effective it is, and ulipristal acetate is considered more effective overall.
The Pharmacy First Scheme is an NHS initiative launched in England in January 2024, allowing patients to receive treatment for seven common conditions and advice on minor illnesses directly from their community pharmacist without needing a GP appointment. The Pharmacy First service covers the following conditions: Sinusitis (adults and children 12+) Sore throat (adults and children 5+) Earache (children and young adults 1-17) Infected insect bite (adults and children 1+) Impetigo (adults and children 1+) Shingles (adults 18+) Uncomplicated urinary tract infections (adults 16-64)