Get same-day NHS treatment without waiting for a GP
Fast-Track NHS Treatment in St Helens: Pharmacy First Service
Led by Stuart Ellis, GPhC Registered Pharmacist
Skip the GP wait. Get free NHS treatment for 7 common conditions today – choose online or in-person consultation with prescription medication when needed.
Consult a Pharmacist
Get professional healthcare today without waiting for a GP appointment – choose remote or in-store consultation.
Conditions We Treat Under Pharmacy First:
- Sinusitis (12 years and over)
- Sore throat (5 years and over)
- Earache (1-17 years)
- Infected insect bites (1 year and older)
- Impetigo (1 year and older)
- Shingles (18 years and over)
- UTIs in women (16-64 years)
Professional Healthcare You Can Trust
Meet Your Local Healthcare Provider: Stuart Ellis
As St. Helens’ dedicated community pharmacy, we’ve helped thousands of local residents access healthcare without waiting for a GP appointment. We offer professional care, either face-to-face or via remote consultation, all managed from our convenient location in the heart of St. Helens.
Stuart Ellis, our GPhC Registered Pharmacist, leads our Pharmacy First service with over 20 years of experience. Stuart and our qualified pharmacy team are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat a range of common conditions, providing the same high standard of care you’d expect from your GP.
Our Qualified Team
Our pharmacists have completed specialised NHS training to deliver the Pharmacy First service, ensuring you receive expert healthcare advice and appropriate treatments. We can provide prescription medicines where necessary, saving you time and getting you on the path to recovery faster.
Book your in-store or remote consultation today and join the thousands of St. Helens residents who’ve experienced faster, more convenient healthcare through Pharmacy First.
Why Choose Our Pharmacy First Service
Faster Healthcare Access
No GP appointment needed
Walk-in service or remote consultation available
Same-day treatment possible
Prescription medicines provided when appropriate
Follow-up support if needed
Service Comparison
Pharmacy First
GP Appointment
Walk-in Centre
Waiting Time
Minimal
Days/Weeks
Hours
Appointment Needed
No
Yes
No
Prescriptions Available
Yes
Yes
Sometimes
NHS Funded
Yes
Yes
Yes
Location
In-store or Remote
Varies
Hospital/Health Centre
Open Weekends
Yes (Saturday)
Limited
Yes
Treatment for 7 Common Conditions
Yes
Yes
Yes
How to Access Our Pharmacy First Service
Option 1: In-Store Visit
Option 2: Remote Consultation
When to Use the Pharmacy First Service
Our Pharmacy First service is ideal for common conditions that need prompt attention but aren’t emergencies. Connect with us remotely or visit in-store if you’re experiencing: Sinusitis symptoms (facial pain, blocked nose) Sore throat (pain, difficulty swallowing) Earache (pain, discharge, hearing problems) Infected insect bites (redness, swelling, pain) Impetigo (red sores, crusting, blisters) Shingles (painful rash, tingling sensation) UTI symptoms in women (burning sensation, frequent urination)
Completely Free NHS Service
The Pharmacy First service is fully funded by the NHS and is available at no cost to eligible patients, whether you choose remote or in-store consultation. If prescription medication is needed, standard NHS prescription charges apply (free for those exempt from prescription charges).
What Our St Helens Patients Say
Margaret from Haydock
John from Newton-le-Willows
Sarah from St Helens
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the service really free?
Yes, the Pharmacy First consultation and assessment are completely free under the NHS, whether in-person or remote. If you need prescription medication, standard NHS prescription charges apply (unless you’re exempt).
Do I need an appointment?
For in-store visits, you can simply walk in during our opening hours. For remote consultations, we recommend booking a time slot. You can call ahead to check in-store waiting times.
How do remote consultations work?
Remote consultations are conducted via phone or video call. You’ll discuss your symptoms with our pharmacist who will assess your condition and recommend appropriate treatment. If medication is needed, prescriptions can be arranged for collection or delivery.
What if my condition isn't suitable for Pharmacy First?
If our pharmacist determines your condition requires additional care, they’ll refer you to the appropriate healthcare provider, such as your GP or urgent care.
Can I get antibiotics if I need them?
Yes, our pharmacists can prescribe antibiotics when clinically appropriate for the conditions covered under the Pharmacy First scheme.
Can I use this service for my child?
Yes, depending on the condition and your child’s age. Age requirements vary by condition (listed above), but many services are available for children from age 1.
Will you share information with my GP?
Yes, with your consent, we’ll inform your GP about your consultation and any treatment provided to ensure continuity of care.
Access Pharmacy First at Millennium
Book a remote consultation, request the Pharmacy First service, complete a quick assessment, and get instant treatment or advice.
