Can we help you?

You're likely eligible if your symptoms match one of the seven Pharmacy First conditions and you fall within its age range. The quickest way to be sure is to call 01270 215837 or pop into Crewe Pharmacy on Nantwich Road, where the pharmacist runs a short assessment against the NHS criteria. There's no paperwork to fill in beforehand and no referral needed.

Age criteria vary by condition. Sinusitis is for ages 12 and over, sore throat for ages 5 and over, and shingles for adults 18 and over. Earache covers children aged 1 to 17, while infected insect bites and impetigo are for anyone aged 1 and over. The UTI pathway is for women aged 16 to 64. Our pharmacist confirms which one fits you.

It depends on the condition, so always tell the pharmacist if you're pregnant or breastfeeding. The UTI pathway, for example, isn't suitable during pregnancy and you'd be referred elsewhere. For other conditions, the pharmacist chooses treatment that's safe for you or signposts you to your GP or midwife. Being pregnant never means you'll be turned away without advice.

You won't be left without help. If your symptoms or age fall outside the NHS criteria, the pharmacist explains why and points you to the right next step — whether that's your GP, NHS 111, an over-the-counter remedy, or self-care advice. At Crewe Pharmacy we'd rather you leave knowing exactly what to do than feel sent away empty-handed.

You can simply walk in — no appointment or referral is required for Pharmacy First. Just call into Crewe Pharmacy on Nantwich Road during opening hours, Monday to Saturday, and ask to speak to the pharmacist. If you'd prefer to check first or avoid a busy spell, phone ahead on 01270 215837 and we'll let you know a good time to come in.

Yes, several Pharmacy First conditions cover children. Earache is for ages 1 to 17, sore throat from age 5, and infected insect bites and impetigo from age 1. Please bring the child with you so the pharmacist can examine them properly, along with details of any medicines they take. If a child needs a GP or urgent care instead, we'll tell you clearly.

Not necessarily — antibiotics are only supplied when the assessment shows they're genuinely needed. Many infections clear up on their own, so the pharmacist may recommend self-care, pain relief or symptom advice instead. This careful approach protects you from unnecessary medicines and helps keep antibiotics effective. If treatment is appropriate, it's provided on the NHS during your visit.

Most consultations take around 10 to 15 minutes. The pharmacist asks about your symptoms, checks you meet the criteria, examines you if needed, and discusses treatment with you. You may wait a short while if the pharmacist is with another patient, so calling 01270 215837 ahead can help you pick a quieter time. There's no charge for the consultation itself on the NHS.

Come back to see us or contact your GP if you're not improving as expected, usually within a few days. The pharmacist will have told you what to watch for and when to seek further help. At Crewe Pharmacy you're welcome to return for a re-check — repeat visits are fine, and we'll reassess or refer you onward if your symptoms change or worsen.

Call 999 or go to A&E for emergencies such as difficulty breathing, severe chest pain, a stiff neck with a rash that doesn't fade, confusion, or a child who is very unwell or unresponsive. See your GP or call NHS 111 for ongoing, severe or unusual symptoms that fall outside Pharmacy First. If you're ever unsure, ring 01270 215837 and we'll guide you.