Ear Ache - Pharmacy First
If you or your child has earache, our pharmacists can assess eligible patients aged 1 to 17 years and provide NHS advice and treatment where clinically appropriate, helping you access care without waiting for a GP appointment.
If you or your child has earache, you may not need to wait for a GP appointment. Through the NHS Pharmacy First service, our qualified pharmacists can assess acute ear infections (acute otitis media) in eligible children and provide NHS treatment where clinically appropriate.
This service is available for children and young people aged 1 to 17 years with symptoms of acute earache.
What happens during your consultation?
During your consultation, one of our pharmacists will:
Discuss the symptoms and how long they have been present
Review medical history and any current medication
Assess whether the Pharmacy First service is appropriate
Recommend the most suitable treatment
Supply NHS medication where clinically appropriate
Refer to a GP or another healthcare service if further assessment is required
Your consultation is private, confidential and designed to help your child receive the right care as quickly as possible.
Common symptoms of earache
You may be suitable for this service if you or your child is experiencing:
Ear pain or discomfort
Reduced hearing
A high temperature
Irritability in younger children
Difficulty sleeping due to ear pain
Why choose PillBox Chemists?
No GP appointment required
Qualified pharmacists providing expert clinical advice
NHS treatment available where clinically appropriate
Convenient appointments and walk-in availability
Friendly, professional care close to home
If you're unsure whether this service is suitable, our pharmacy team will be happy to help.
Please note: This NHS service is available to eligible patients only. Treatment is provided following a clinical assessment and in accordance with NHS Pharmacy First guidelines.
