More than 100,000 people have used community pharmacy services in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight since December 2023.

A wide variety of services are now accessible from community pharmacists, including free blood pressure checks for people over 40, free contraceptives following a pharmacist consultation and assistance for minor ailments.

The Pharmacy First scheme, which began on January 31, 2024, allows patients to receive treatment for seven common conditions directly from their local pharmacy without the need for a GP appointment or prescription.

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The conditions include sinusitis, sore throat, earache in children, infected insect bites, impetigo, shingles and uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women aged 16-64.

The initiative allows community pharmacists to advise on how to manage a condition and provide prescription-only medications, including antibiotics and antivirals, where clinically appropriate.

Pharmacists are also trained to determine whether a GP, nurse, or other healthcare professional is needed for more serious conditions.

Neil Hardy, chief pharmacist for NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight, said: "Local community pharmacists are here to help and can provide you with expert advice on how to treat many common health conditions such as sore throats and urinary tract infections.

"They can also give you advice regarding medications or direct you to the right service if you need further support."

James Roach, director of primary care for NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight, said: "Our community pharmacies are a vital first port of call for many ailments, and it is great to see so many people in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight using this brilliant service.

"This has also helped to free up more GP appointments for the people that need them."