NHS Pharmacy First
Skip the GP for seven common conditions in Urmston
Pharmacy First is the NHS service that lets you see a pharmacist at Davyhulme Pharmacy and see a registered pharmacist the same day for seven everyday conditions. If treatment is appropriate we can supply it on the NHS, often within fifteen minutes of arrival.
The seven conditions we treat
12 years and over
Sinusitis
Facial pressure, blocked nose, thick coloured mucus lasting more than ten days, or symptoms that briefly improve then return. The pharmacist will check whether a steroid spray or, in a small number of cases, an antibiotic is appropriate.
5 years and over
Sore throat
We use the FeverPAIN score to decide whether a sore throat is likely viral (most are) or whether you fit the small group who benefit from antibiotics. Comfort advice and over-the-counter options are always discussed first.
1 to 17 years
Earache (acute otitis media)
Many ear infections settle on their own. The pharmacist will examine the ear if needed, give pain-relief advice and prescribe antibiotic drops or tablets only when criteria are met. If we are worried we send you back to the GP or to A&E.
1 year and over
Infected insect bites
Redness spreading beyond the bite, warmth, swelling and tenderness after twenty-four hours can mean a skin infection. We can supply antibiotics on the NHS if you meet the clinical thresholds.
1 year and over
Impetigo
Crusty yellow sores that pop up around the nose, mouth or hands. A topical antibiotic or, less often, an oral antibiotic can clear it quickly.
18 years and over
Shingles
A painful rash on one side of the body that follows a nerve. If you come within seventy-two hours of the rash starting we can supply antiviral tablets on the NHS.
Women 16 to 64
Uncomplicated urinary tract infection (UTI)
Burning when you wee, urgency or wee that smells strong. We use NICE criteria to assess and where appropriate we supply a three-day course of antibiotics on the NHS.
How the service works
Walk in or ring ahead
You can see a pharmacist at the pharmacy on Canterbury Road or call 0161 748 3016 first. We usually have a slot the same morning or early afternoon.
Private consultation
A registered pharmacist takes your history, examines you (where needed) and explains options in the consultation room.
Treatment, advice or referral
We supply medication on the NHS where appropriate, hand you self-care advice or refer you onwards to your GP, NHS 111 or A&E if the situation is more serious.
Follow-up if needed
We tell you when to come back, and notes are sent to your GP so your record stays joined up.
Who pays
Pharmacy First is free at the point of use for anyone registered with an NHS GP in England. Standard NHS prescription charge applies for any medicine supplied unless you are exempt (pregnant, under sixteen, sixty plus, on certain benefits or holding a current exemption certificate).
When to seek other care
If you have a high fever, breathing difficulty, severe headache, a stiff neck, are pregnant with new tummy pain or have a baby under one with a fever, do not wait for the pharmacy. Call 111 or 999. The pharmacist will also refer on if any red flags appear during the consultation.
Common questions
Do I need to be registered with a local Urmston GP?
No. As long as you are registered with any NHS GP in England you can use the service at our pharmacy in Urmston.
How long does the appointment take?
Usually ten to fifteen minutes including the consultation and supply of any treatment.
Will my GP know what happened?
Yes. We send a short clinical note electronically through the NHS spine so your record stays up to date.
What if the pharmacist decides I need a doctor?
We refer you on the same day, either to your GP, NHS 111 or in rare cases directly to A&E. There is no charge for the consultation.
Can I bring my child in for earache?
Yes, from one to seventeen years old. A parent or guardian must be present and we may ask to look in the ear.