Pharmacy First is an initiative designed to make community pharmacies the first point of contact for patients with minor illnesses and certain conditions. The goal is to reduce pressure on GP surgeries and hospitals by enabling trained pharmacists to provide clinical advice, treatment, and, in some cases, prescribe medications.
From September 2024 to March 2025, the number of GP referrals into the programme have increased by 40% (against a target of 20%), easing the load on practices and allowing patients to be seen more quickly by their local pharmacy.
As awareness of the initiative grows, we expect to see more and more patients refer directly to pharmacies or referring themselves, further easing pressure on GP practices.
Link to news item – Pharmacy First Programme Having An Impact Across Wandsworth