Pharmacy First
You can get help for some common conditions straight from a pharmacy, without seeing a GP. A pharmacist will check your symptoms and, if you need them, can give you prescription medicines such as antibiotics.
You do not need an appointment. Just walk in, or phone the pharmacy first.
Conditions a pharmacist can treat
| Condition | Who can use it |
|---|---|
| Earache (ear infection) | Children and young people aged 1 to 17 |
| Impetigo | Aged 1 and over |
| Infected insect bite | Aged 1 and over |
| Shingles | Aged 18 and over |
| Sinusitis | Aged 12 and over |
| Sore throat | Aged 5 and over |
| Urinary tract infection (UTI) | Women aged 16 to 64 |
If the pharmacist thinks you need to see a GP, they will tell you, and let us know.
Our local pharmacies
Boots, Fore Street, Chard
Mortons Pharmacy, Holyrood Street, Chard
You can also find a pharmacy near you, including ones open late or at weekends.
Pharmacists can also help with many other minor illnesses, and many offer blood pressure checks and the contraceptive pill.
Urgent advice: Get help urgently
If you feel very unwell, your symptoms are getting worse quickly, or you are not sure what to do, go to 111.nhs.uk or call 111. In an emergency, call 999.
Page last reviewed: 13 November 2026