Pharmacy First
The Pharmacy First service commenced on 31st January 2024. The majority of Essex pharmacies have signed up to deliver this service.
The Advanced service involves pharmacists providing advice and NHS-funded treatment, where clinically appropriate, for seven common conditions:
- sinusitis
- sore throat
- acute otitis media
- infected insect bite
- impetigo
- shingles
- uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women.
See here for Eligibility at a glance, and for the specification
Latest Update
On 31st March 2025, the details of the contractual settlement for 2025/26 were announced, which included changes to the Pharmacy First service.
Fees
From 1st April 2025, the consultation fee for Minor illness and Clinical Pathway consultations increased to £17 (from £15). The fee for Urgent supply consultations remains at £15.
Monthly payment
From 1st June 2025, a banded approach will be added to the monthly payment:
- £500 for those providing 20-29 Clinical pathways consultations within a month; and
- £1000 for those pharmacies that provide 30 or more Clinical pathways consultations within a month.
