Sore throat and the Service

The Pharmacy First Service for sore throat is for adults and children aged five years and over, and excludes pregnant individuals under 16 years.

Whether patients have been referred into the pharmacy for the service, or have walked in, they may first want an explanation from a pharmacy team member about what the consultation involves.

The first step comprises a consultation with the pharmacist in a separate consultation room. They may perform an examination or ask to access the patient’s medical records in order to recommend the best course of action for the individual, including by issuing prescriptions for antibiotics or antivirals where clinically appropriate.

Patients can be reassured that the appointment and advice from a pharmacist are free to access, but if they are supplied with a prescription-only medication, usual prescription charges would apply unless they qualify for free prescriptions, and they will also have to pay if they choose to buy any recommended P or OTC medication.