Nottingham and Nottinghamshire ICB
Patients across Nottingham and Nottinghamshire are benefitting from quicker, more convenient access to NHS medicines and expert advice, thanks to the Pharmacy First service.
Latest figures show that in the six months between April and September 2025, community pharmacies in the area provided over 32,000 Pharmacy First consultations to more than 31,000 patients, helping people get the NHS treatment they need, without having to wait for a GP appointment.
Pharmacy First includes NHS treatments for the following seven common conditions (age restrictions apply):
From April to September 2025, the largest number of Pharmacy First consultations were for uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women (9,130). Children aged 0–14 accounted for 18% of all consultations, with acute otitis media (earache) representing half of those cases.
More than 200 local pharmacies are providing the Pharmacy First service, which is helping to free up GP appointments for people with more serious illnesses. Pharmacy First is usually available without an appointment and with trained pharmacists, often available at weekends.
Dr Dave Briggs, Director of Outcomes (Medical) at NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, said: “Pharmacies are a vital part of the NHS family, offering expert clinical care at the heart of every community. By providing rapid, convenient treatment for common conditions, Pharmacy First is easing pressure on GPs and other parts of the NHS, ensuring patients get the right care, in the right place, at the right time.
Kevin Walker from Clipstone in Nottinghamshire is one of the patients to benefit from Pharmacy First. He visited Orchard Pharmacy in Mansfield after an insect bite became infected.
Kevin said: “Imran, the pharmacist, was absolutely brilliant. He took a look, asked me some questions, and straight away, he knew what I needed. I got the right medication there and then, no doctor’s appointment needed! It was so quick and easy, and Imran was incredibly helpful and reassuring. Honestly, Pharmacy First is a game-changer.”
For more information about Pharmacy First and how your local pharmacy can help, see the Pharmacy First Nottinghamshire website: pharmacyfirstnottinghamshire.com or speak to your community pharmacist today.
For details about the full range of NHS services available from your community pharmacy, see the NHS Nottingham and Nottinghamshire website: notts.icb.nhs.uk/your-services/community-pharmacy
