Migraines and acne among five more conditions pharmacists can treat
Summary
Starting this autumn in England, people can visit local pharmacies to get treatment for 12 common health issues without first seeing a doctor. Five new conditions—including migraines, acne, and ear infections—are added to the seven conditions pharmacists already treat to help reduce pressure on doctors and emergency rooms.Key Facts
- Pharmacists in England can now treat 12 common conditions on the spot, up from 7 previously.
- The five new conditions are migraines, acne, scabies, ear infections, and badly blocked noses.
- This change aims to make healthcare more convenient and reduce the burden on doctors and emergency departments.
- The service will gradually expand from a few hundred pharmacies to thousands across England.
- Community pharmacies also provide support for healthy living, vaccines, and blood pressure checks.
- Since starting in 2024, the Pharmacy First scheme has provided 14 million consultations, including 2 million for sore throats.
- Health officials and charity groups support the move to improve care and save time for patients.
- Pharmacy groups say current government funding is not enough to cover the increased workload.
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