Stop Smoking Support
Skincare Consultations
NHS Services
Weight Management
Minor Ailments
Medicine Pricing Advice
Pharmacy First is an NHS-commissioned scheme that allows community pharmacists in Northern Ireland to assess and treat a set list of conditions, free of charge to the patient, without the need for a GP appointment. It's a genuine part of the HSC's own health service, not just a marketing term, and it covers five categories of care.
Everyday health conditions
Free assessment and treatment for: acne, athlete's foot, diarrhoea, earwax, groin infection, haemorrhoids, head lice, mouth ulcers, oral thrush, scabies, threadworms, vaginal thrush, and verrucae.
Emergency hormonal contraception
Free for patients aged 13 and over.
UTI assessment and treatment
Free for women aged 16 to 64.
Shingles treatment
Why Choose 123Chem for Travel Health
Frequently Asked
Questions patients ask us most
What is Pharmacy First?
Pharmacy First is the official HSC scheme in Northern Ireland that lets pharmacists assess and treat a specific list of everyday conditions, free of charge, without a GP appointment.
Is it really free?
Yes, for the five Pharmacy First categories listed above. Back pain support and erectile dysfunction consultations are separate pharmacist-led services; see each dedicated page for how those work.
Do I need to book an appointment?
Does every 123 Chem branch offer every service?
Your pharmacy should feel like part of the community.
Can't find your medicine anywhere else? We specialise in sourcing discontinued and hard-to-get medicines, plus private dispensing.
123Chem Group
