If you are a woman aged 16 to 64 and think you have a urinary tract infection (UTI), you can see a pharmacist instead of your GP. Under the NHS Pharmacy First service the pharmacist assesses your symptoms and offers advice, and medicine if it is right for you.
Reviewed by Benjamin Rawthore, Pharmacist Manager and Independent Prescriber (GPhC 2215432). Last reviewed .
Common signs
- Pain or a burning feeling when you pee
- Needing to pee more often than usual, or suddenly
- Pee that is cloudy, or has blood in it
- Pain low in your tummy
What the pharmacist does
- Asks about your symptoms in a private consultation room
- Checks the NHS pathway suits you, as some people need to see a GP instead
- Offers medicine if it is right for you under the NHS pathway
- Tells you if you need to see a GP or someone else, and helps you get there
The consultation is free on the NHS. The usual prescription charges apply to any medicine you are given, unless you get free prescriptions.
Questions people ask
Does cranberry juice treat a UTI?
There is no good evidence that it does. Get assessed rather than waiting for it to clear.
Do I have to pay?
The consultation is free on the NHS. The usual prescription charges apply to any medicine you are given, unless you get free prescriptions.
Will my GP practice know?
Yes. The pharmacist updates your GP record after the consultation, so your notes stay complete.