Minor Ailments Service at NewGen Pharmacy
The NHS Minor Ailments Service allows our GPhC-registered pharmacists to assess, advise, and treat a wide range of common conditions — without the need for a GP appointment.
You can access this service online, by phone, or in person at our Stratford pharmacy. In addition, you can ask your GP practice to refer you if needed.
What is the Minor Ailments Service?
The Minor Ailments Service is an NHS-commissioned service. It enables community pharmacists to provide clinical assessment and treatment for common, self-limiting conditions.
As a result, it improves access to care and reduces pressure on GP surgeries and NHS 111. At NewGen Pharmacy, our pharmacists provide professional advice, appropriate treatment where needed, and clear guidance on when to seek further medical care.
Conditions We Can Help With
- Respiratory conditions: such as colds, flu, coughs, and hay fever
- Skin and wound care: including rashes, dry skin, mouth ulcers, and minor wounds
- Digestive conditions: such as indigestion, constipation, diarrhoea, nausea, and vomiting
- Eye conditions: including mild conjunctivitis and irritation
- Pain management: such as headaches and general pain
- Women’s health: including vaginal thrush
However, this list is not exhaustive. If you are unsure whether your condition is covered, please contact us and we will advise you.
How Does the Minor Ailments Service Work?
- First, contact us online, by phone, or visit the pharmacy. Alternatively, your GP can refer you
- Next, our pharmacist will assess you, asking about your symptoms, medical history, and current medications
- Then, we provide treatment or advice based on your condition and clinical guidelines
- Finally, if needed, we will refer you to your GP, a specialist, or urgent care
Why Use Our Online Pharmacy for Minor Ailments?
- Firstly, you get fast access to professional clinical advice without waiting for a GP appointment
- Secondly, you can complete your consultation online from the comfort of your home
- In addition, the service is free for NHS patients
- Moreover, our GPhC-registered pharmacists provide safe, evidence-based care
- Finally, we offer friendly and professional support for everyday health concerns
Speak to one of our pharmacists today about your condition. The Minor Ailments Service is free on the NHS and available online or in person.
Our team will assess your symptoms and advise you on the most suitable next steps.
About Our Services
Is this NHS pharmacy service free?
Most of our services are NHS-funded and free at the point of use. However, standard NHS prescription charges may still apply in some cases. Many patients are exempt, including some children, older adults, pregnant patients, and people with certain medical conditions.
Do I need a GP referral for this service?
No. Most services allow self-referral, so you can contact us directly. However, some services may require referral through another healthcare professional, depending on the clinical pathway.
Who provides my treatment at NewGen Pharmacy?
Our GPhC-registered pharmacists carry out consultations and make treatment decisions in line with current clinical guidance and NHS service requirements.
Am I eligible for this NHS pharmacy service?
Eligibility depends on the service, your age, your symptoms, and your medical history. Our pharmacist will confirm whether the service is suitable for you during the consultation.
Will I receive medication after my consultation?
Not always. Our pharmacist will recommend the most appropriate next step. In some cases, self-care advice is enough. If treatment is clinically appropriate, we may supply medication through the service.
What do I need before my pharmacy consultation?
This depends on the service. Usually, you need to describe your symptoms and provide basic medical information. For some services, you may also need details such as your current medicines, a recent blood pressure reading, or other relevant health information.
Is my pharmacy consultation confidential?
Yes. All consultations follow UK GDPR, the Data Protection Act 2018, and NHS confidentiality standards. We handle your information securely and only share it when required for your care or by law.
Access, Safety & Support
Can I use this service online or in person?
Yes. Many of our services are available online, and in-person support is also available at our pharmacy. Availability may vary depending on the service.
How quickly will I get a response?
We aim to review consultations on the same day during opening hours. However, some conditions are time-sensitive, so please contact us directly if your symptoms are urgent.
What happens if I am not suitable for treatment?
If this service is not suitable for you, our pharmacist will explain the next step and may refer you to your GP, NHS 111, urgent care, or another appropriate service.
Is NewGen Pharmacy regulated in the UK?
Yes. NewGen Pharmacy is regulated by the General Pharmaceutical Council and follows UK pharmacy law, NHS service requirements, and current professional standards.
How can I make a complaint?
If you have a concern, please contact our team directly by phone or email. We take all complaints seriously and will explain our complaints process clearly.
Where can I find trusted NHS health information?
You can find general health information on the NHS website and clinical guidance from NICE. If you need help with a specific service, you can also contact our pharmacy team directly.