Pharmacy First is an NHS initiative that allows pharmacists to advise and treat several conditions that previously only GPs could prescribe medication for. At Smarta Healthcare, these conditions are impetigo, infected insect bites and stings, shingles, sinusitis, sore throat and UTIs in women age 16-64. 

Pharmacy first allows you fast and convenient access to healthcare advice and treatment, without going to your GP. Pharmacy First frees up GP and hospital appointments for people who may need to access them urgently.  

Pharmacists are highly qualified healthcare professionals. They have been trained to diagnose, advise and supply treatment for these conditions.  

In some instances, the pharmacist may refer you to other health services if your condition requires further investigation or may be more serious. 

Anyone who is registered with a GP and with an NHS number can access Pharmacy First services. If you think you your symptoms are consistent with these conditions, you can book a free online consultation with one of our pharmacists on our website. Choose a date and time convenient for you, and log onto the virtual call. Discuss your symptoms with our pharmacist and they will give you advice and if necessary, arrange treatment that you can ether pick up at our Bedford location, or have delivered to your home or work address anywhere in the UK. 

You may also be referred to Smarta Healthcare through another NHS health service, such as NHS 111 or your GP. 

The Pharmacy First consultation with a pharmacist is free of charge. Charges may apply to any treatment prescribed by the pharmacist. If you normally do not pay for your prescription, you may be eligible for free treatment.  

Delivery of treatment is free of charge, and same day delivery is available to addresses in Bedfordshire.  

Smarta Healthcare can help you if you are experiencing earache, however you will need to arrange an appointment to come into our clinic so we can properly check your ears.  

This service is NOT part of Smarta Healthcare’s NHS Pharmacy First service; however, it is still available as a private healthcare service and will include a cost.