Sore Throat & The NHS Pharmacy First Service
The Pharmacy First service allows community pharmacists in England to assess and treat common conditions – specifically Acute Sore Throat – without the need for a GP appointment. This service offers a faster, more accessible route to expert care.
Who is this service for?
The specific clinical pathway for treating sore throats under Pharmacy First is designed for adults and children.
Eligibility: Adults and children aged 5 years and over.
Condition: Suspected Acute Sore Throat (where symptoms are severe enough to require assessment or suggest a bacterial infection).
Recognising the symptoms
If you or your child are experiencing the following, a pharmacist can help:
Pain
A painful throat, especially when swallowing.
Appearance
Red or swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches or pus.
Swelling
Painful or swollen glands in the neck.
Temperature
A high temperature (fever) or feeling hot and shivery.
Associated symptoms
A muffled voice, bad breath, or a headache.
How the service works
You can visit us at Saood Pharmacy with or without a GP referral.
Access: Please call us on 01189572687 or visit the form at the bottom of the page to check eligibility and book an appointment.
Treatment options
If the pharmacist confirms an infection or symptoms that require treatment, they can provide advice and supply medication directly.
Pain Relief: Guidance on the use of paracetamol or ibuprofen to manage pain and fever.
Medicated Gargles/Sprays: Recommendations for over-the-counter sprays or lozenges to soothe the throat.
Antibiotics: If the pharmacist determines the infection is likely bacterial (based on clinical assessment), they can supply antibiotics where appropriate.
Note: If medication is prescribed, standard NHS prescription charges apply (unless
the patient is exempt, e.g., children).
Why visit Saood Pharmacy to treat sore throats?
Convenience
Central town centre location with no need for a GP appointment.
Access
Faster, more accessible route to getting assessed.
Expertise
Our pharmacy teams utilise their clinical expertise to provide reliable guidance on managing sore throats and selecting the most effective treatment options for your needs.
Advice and treatment for other common conditions in Saood pharmacy Reading
The Pharmacy First Clinical Pathways Service is an NHS service designed to offer free advice and treatments to eligible patients for seven common conditions including sore throats. Patients can access this service at Saood Pharmacy in Central Reading. The additional six conditions covered by this service are:
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Earache
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Impetigo
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Infected Insect Bites
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Shingles
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Sinusitis
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Uncomplicated UTI
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Book an appointment
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