Choosing the Right NHS Service
Think Pharmacy First
Your local pharmacy is often the quickest place to get help for everyday health concerns. Under Think Pharmacy First, pharmacists can offer fast, expert advice and treatment for many minor illnesses.
Pharmacists can help with:
- Common infections — sore throats, earache, sinusitis
- Skin conditions — impetigo, infected insect bites, rashes
- Shingles
- Women’s UTIs (uncomplicated urinary tract infections)
Why choose a pharmacy first:
- Quick access to advice
- No need for a GP appointment
- Many pharmacies are open late and at weekends
- Pharmacists will guide you if you need GP or urgent care instead
Urgent Treatment Centres (UTCs)
Urgent Treatment Centres are designed for illnesses and injuries that need attention quickly but are not life‑threatening.
UTCs can help with:
- Sprains and strains
- Minor fractures
- Cuts and wounds
- Minor burns
- Infections needing urgent treatment
- Minor head injuries
Why visit a UTC:
- Walk‑in or NHS 111 referral
- Experienced clinicians on site
- Many centres have X‑ray facilities
- Helps keep A&E free for life‑threatening emergencies
You can look on the NHS website for where your closest Urgent Treatment Centre is.
Urgent Dental Care
If you have a dental problem that needs prompt attention, Urgent Dental Care services can help.
Urgent dental care is for:
- Severe toothache
- Dental swelling
- Bleeding after dental treatment
- Dental trauma (e.g., knocked‑out or broken teeth)
What to do:
- Contact your usual dentist first
- If you don’t have a dentist or can’t reach one, call NHS 111
- They will help you find an urgent dental service locally