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Same-day NHS assessment and treatment for Sore Throats
Three simple steps to get your treatment
A sore throat is a common condition that causes pain, irritation, or scratchiness in the throat, often making swallowing uncomfortable. It’s usually caused by viral infections such as colds or flu, but can sometimes be due to bacterial infections like streptococcal (strep) throat.
Through the NHS Pharmacy First service, trained pharmacy clinicians can assess sore throat symptoms without the need for a GP appointment. Using clinical assessment tools, we can determine whether your symptoms are likely viral (which usually improve on their own) or bacterial, and provide treatment or advice accordingly.
This service helps you get the right care quickly, while reducing unnecessary antibiotic use.
Safe, effective medications reviewed by our pharmacists
The Pharmacy First Service can assess eligible patients with symptoms including:
Painful swallowing.
Red or inflamed throat.
Swollen tonsils.
White spots on the tonsils.
Fever.
Swollen glands in the neck.
Throat discomfort lasting a short period of time.
Our clinician will assess your symptoms and determine the most appropriate treatment.
Yes.
The consultation is free for eligible NHS patients.
If medication is supplied, standard NHS prescription charges may apply unless you are entitled to free NHS prescriptions.
No.
Many patients can access sore throat assessment and treatment directly through the pharmacy without first seeing a GP.
This often allows faster access to care and advice.
Many patients can be assessed and treated on the same day.
Availability may vary, so we recommend booking as soon as symptoms develop.
Yes.
Where clinically appropriate, pharmacists can supply antibiotics through the Pharmacy First Service.
Not all sore throats require antibiotics, and treatment decisions are based on your symptoms and assessment findings.
Most sore throats improve within a week.
Viral sore throats often begin to improve after a few days, while bacterial infections may require treatment to reduce symptoms and complications.
If symptoms persist or worsen, further assessment may be required.
White spots or white patches on the tonsils can occur with bacterial or viral throat infections.
They may indicate inflammation or infection but do not automatically mean antibiotics are needed.
Our clinician can assess your symptoms and advise on the most appropriate treatment.
You should seek urgent medical attention if you experience symptoms such as:
Difficulty breathing.
Difficulty swallowing liquids.
Severe swelling in the throat.
Drooling.
Severe dehydration.
Significant worsening of symptoms.
These symptoms may indicate a more serious condition requiring urgent assessment.
Many sore throats are caused by infections that can spread between people.
Good hygiene measures such as regular handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and avoiding close contact with others while unwell can help reduce transmission.
Eligibility for Pharmacy First sore throat treatment starts for children aged 5 onwards on the NHS.
Our pharmacy team can advise whether your child is eligible for assessment through the service.
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