Pharmacy First

  1. Home
  2. Pharmacy First

Fast, Expert Treatment for Minor Conditions — Without a GP Appointment

At Bushmead Pharmacy in Luton, we’re proud to offer the NHS Pharmacy First service, designed to make healthcare more accessible for everyone. This service allows our qualified pharmacists to assess and treat a range of minor illnesses and common conditions — saving you time and helping you get the care you need quickly, without the need for a GP appointment.

Our pharmacists are trained healthcare professionals who can provide clinical advice, prescribe treatments where appropriate, and refer you to other services if necessary.

Why Use Pharmacy First?

  • No need to book a GP appointment — just visit us directly.

  • Receive professional, confidential healthcare advice and treatment.

  • Get prescribed medication (if clinically appropriate) on the NHS.

  • Convenient and accessible — right in the heart of Luton.

  • A trusted, community-based alternative for minor health concerns.

Conditions We Can Treat

The Pharmacy First service covers several common conditions, allowing our pharmacists to provide consultations and NHS-supplied treatments.

Below are the current conditions that can be treated under this service:

1. Earache (Aged 1 to 17 years)

Ear infections and earache are common in children. Our pharmacist can assess symptoms such as:

  • Ear pain or pressure

  • Hearing loss or discomfort

  • Irritability or trouble sleeping

Depending on your child’s age and symptoms, we can advise on the best treatment options, including NHS-supplied medication or self-care tips to relieve discomfort.

2. Impetigo (Aged 1 year and above)

Impetigo is a contagious skin infection often seen in children. We can help identify symptoms such as:

  • Red sores or blisters

  • Crusting or yellow patches on the skin

  • Itchiness and irritation

Our pharmacist can provide antibacterial treatment and guidance on preventing the spread of infection.

3. Infected Insect Bites (Aged 1 year and above)

If a bite becomes swollen, warm, or painful, it could be infected. We can assess your symptoms and offer:

  • NHS treatment if infection is confirmed

  • Soothing creams or antihistamines for irritation

  • Advice on reducing swelling and avoiding further infection

4. Shingles (Aged 18 years and above)

Shingles can cause a painful rash that may blister or tingle before appearing. Our pharmacist can:

  • Assess your symptoms

  • Provide antiviral treatment (if clinically appropriate)

  • Offer advice on pain relief and skin care during recovery

Early treatment helps shorten the duration and reduce complications.

5. Sinusitis (Aged 12 years and above)

Common symptoms include facial pain, blocked nose, headache, or pressure around the eyes.
Our pharmacist can:

  • Assess your symptoms

  • Recommend effective treatment

  • Provide advice on decongestants and pain relief

  • Refer you to a GP if symptoms persist or worsen

6. Sore Throat (Aged 5 years and above)

If you have a sore throat, difficulty swallowing, or red, swollen tonsils, our pharmacist can assess you and determine whether antibiotics or other treatments are necessary.
You’ll receive clear, evidence-based advice and support for recovery.

7. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) — Women (Aged 16 to 64 years)

UTIs are common and can cause:

  • Pain or burning when urinating

  • Needing to urinate more often

  • Cloudy or strong-smelling urine

Our pharmacist can assess your symptoms privately and, if appropriate, supply NHS medication for uncomplicated UTIs. If further care is needed, we’ll guide you on the next steps.

How the Service Works

  1. Visit Us – No appointment needed. Just walk into Bushmead Pharmacy during opening hours.

  2. Private Consultation – You’ll speak confidentially with one of our trained pharmacists in a consultation room.

  3. Assessment – We’ll assess your symptoms and decide on the best course of action.

  4. Treatment – If appropriate, you’ll receive NHS-prescribed medication directly from the pharmacy.

  5. Advice & Follow-Up – We’ll provide guidance on self-care, prevention, and when to seek further medical help.

Your Trusted Local NHS Partner

At Bushmead Pharmacy, our goal is to make healthcare simple, accessible, and reliable. With the Pharmacy First service, you can skip long GP waiting times and get the treatment you need — right in your local community.

Our pharmacists are highly trained and work under the latest NHS England guidelines, ensuring safe, evidence-based treatment for all eligible conditions.