Pharmacy First Plus in Airdrie and Auchinleck

What Is Pharmacy First and Pharmacy First Plus?

Pharmacy First is an NHS Scotland service that allows patients to access free advice and treatment for common conditions directly from their local pharmacy. At CarePoint Pharmacy in Airdrie and Auchinleck, we offer both the standard Pharmacy First service and the enhanced Pharmacy First Plus option.

Pharmacy First Plus includes support from a qualified pharmacist independent prescriber (PIP), available at our Airdrie branch. This enables us to diagnose and treat a wider range of conditions without the need for a GP appointment.

What Can Be Treated?

Pharmacy First provides advice and treatment for minor conditions, including:

• Urinary tract infections (uncomplicated)
• Hay fever and seasonal allergies
• Conjunctivitis (sticky or red eyes)
• Cold sores
• Indigestion and constipation
• Fungal infections (such as athlete’s foot)
• Skin rashes, bites and minor irritations

Pharmacy First Plus offers treatment for more complex conditions that would usually require a GP. Our prescribing pharmacist assesses your condition and, if appropriate, prescribes medication for:

• Bacterial throat infections
• Infected insect bites
• Ear infections
• Respiratory tract infections
• Urinary tract infections that don’t respond to standard treatment
• Eczema, psoriasis or more complex skin presentations
• Asthma flare-ups

For standard Pharmacy First support, no appointment is needed. For Pharmacy First Plus, we may ask you to book or speak with our prescribing pharmacist.

Who Is Eligible?

Any patient registered with a GP in Scotland can access this NHS service. You don’t need to book an appointment for standard treatments. For more complex conditions, our prescribing pharmacist at Airdrie may recommend a consultation. If needed, we’ll refer you to another service and explain the next steps clearly

Why Choose CarePoint Pharmacy?

At CarePoint Pharmacy, we are committed to accessible, patient-centred care. With branches in both Airdrie and Auchinleck, you can speak to a pharmacist quickly, without the wait. Our Airdrie team includes a prescribing pharmacist for enhanced treatment options under the NHS.

We take the time to listen, explain treatment options clearly, and ensure your care is safe and convenient.

NHS Scotland Services Available

As part of NHS Scotland, CarePoint Pharmacy also offers a full range of additional services:

• Emergency contraception
• Medication reviews and advice
• Smoking cessation support
• Chronic Medication Service (CMS)
• Public health advice and signposting

Contact Us

There’s no need to book for most Pharmacy First services. Simply visit our Airdrie or Auchinleck branch. For Pharmacy First Plus or complex consultations, please contact us to check pharmacist availability.