Common Ailments Scheme

When to use the Common Ailments Scheme

Walk in for free NHS advice and treatment for a wide range of minor conditions, including:

• Coughs, colds and sore throats
• Earache and ear infections
• Hay fever and allergies
• Head lice
• Skin conditions including eczema, acne, athlete's foot and fungal infections
• Eye conditions including conjunctivitis and dry eyes
• Indigestion, constipation and diarrhoea
• Urinary tract infections in women
• Oral thrush
• Impetigo and infected insect bites
• Back pain and muscle strains
• Minor cuts, burns and skin irritations
• Teething and nappy rash in babies

The exact list varies by region. If your condition is not suitable for pharmacy treatment, your pharmacist will refer you to your GP.

What is the Common Ailments Scheme?

The Common Ailments Scheme is an NHS-funded service that lets community pharmacists treat minor illnesses and supply medication free of charge, with no prescription charge and no GP appointment. It is available to anyone registered with a GP in the area the pharmacy serves, including adults, children and babies, with no referral needed.

How it works

• Walk in - no appointment needed in most cases
• Consultation - a private conversation about your symptoms and medical history
• Assessment - your pharmacist decides whether your condition can be treated under the scheme
• Treatment - medication supplied free under the NHS, with self-care advice and guidance on when to seek further help
• Referral - onward to your GP if further investigation is needed

Most visits are completed in 15 to 20 minutes. It helps to know what medicines you take, any allergies, how long you have had symptoms and what you have already tried.

Common Ailments Scheme and Pharmacy First

The two names are often used interchangeably, and both describe NHS-funded services letting pharmacists treat minor conditions without a GP referral, with scope varying by region. Under Pharmacy First, pharmacists can also treat conditions that once needed a GP prescription: uncomplicated UTIs, impetigo, infected insect bites, shingles, sinusitis, sore throat and earache.

When to see a GP instead

• Symptoms are severe, worsening or long lasting
• You have a long-term condition that may be affecting your symptoms
• You are pregnant and have concerns about taking medication
• Your pharmacist has advised a further assessment
• You need a repeat prescription for an ongoing condition

Find the Common Ailments Scheme near you

GPhC-registered pharmacists, private consultation rooms, extended opening hours including evenings and weekends, and no appointment needed at most locations. Use the postcode search above to find your nearest Allied Pharmacy.