Pharmacy First Services - Northern Ireland
The service was launched to provide accessible care to patients though the management and treatment under the PGD for the conditions listed below:
- Everyday health conditions.
- Emergency hormonal contraception.
- Uncomplicated UTI’s in women.
Benefits
With increased pressure on General Practitioners, and patients are unable to have access to same-day appointments. Pharmacies now have a service to support the rise in demand. Eases pressure on the NHS as well as the pressures on GPs.
Eligibility
This service is available to all patients over the age of three months and are registered with a GP in Northern Ireland.
Service support
Everyday health conditions
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The following 13 conditions are supported through pharmacy first:
| Acne vulgaris | Vaginal thrush |
| Athlete’s foot | Ear wax |
| Diarrhoea | Mouth ulcers |
| Haemorrhoids | Oral thrush |
| Headlice | Scabies |
| Groin area infection | Verrucae |
| Threadworms |
Emergency hormonal contraception
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This service allows patients to access EHC medication where their regular contraceptive has failed or where unprotected sexual intercourse has taken place. Where appropriate, the pharmacist can also provide ‘bridging contraception’ until the patient has an opportunity to visit their GP/clinic for further supply.
Uncomplicated UTIs in women
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This service is designed to assess and treat women aged 16-64 years presenting the symptoms of UTI. This must be in line with the NI Management of Infection guidelines (Primary Care Antimicrobial Guidelines (microguide.global)) and Public Health England UTI Diagnostic Quick reference tool (Urinary tract infection: diagnostic tools for primary care - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)). Following the initial assessment, a urine dipstick may be supplied alongside analgesics and/or antibiotics.
Sore throat service (Winter 2024/2025)
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The service provides a more accessible, efficient and high-quality clinical pathway for patients with a sore throat. It operates initially during December 2024 and January 2025. Eligible patients are anyone over 5 years old who are registered with a GP in Northern Ireland.