As well as dispensing prescriptions, pharmacists provide a range of services related to specific health issues and can advise on minor ailments such as colds, sprains, skin conditions, stomach upsets and allergies. 

Pharmacists are highly qualified health experts who can give you detailed advice on your medicine, provide treatment for common health problems and give healthier lifestyle advice without the need for a visit to your GP.

From sprains to stomach upsets, your local pharmacist is qualified to give expert advice without an appointment and can advise you if you need to see your doctor.

Most pharmacies now have a quiet area, away from other customers, where you can speak to a pharmacist in private. 

Pharmacies across Rotherham operate a rota system to cover bank holidays and the Christmas and New Year period to ensure you have access to advice and medicines at these times. See tables above for opening times.

Your pharmacist can also offer repeat dispensing services. You get a prescription from your GP for up to a year and then visit your pharmacy for a month’s supply of your medication. 

Many pharmacies now also offer a Medicines Use Review, where you can discuss what you are taking, when you should be taking it, and any side effects you might be concerned about. 

Some common conditions your pharmacist can help you with include:

• Skin conditions such as mild acne and mild eczema
• Coughs and colds, including nasal congestion and sore throat
• Minor cuts and bruises
• Constipation and haemorrhoids (piles)
• Hay fever and allergies
• Aches and pains like headache, earache and backache
• Indigestion, diarrhoea and threadworms
• Period pain and thrush
• Warts, verrucas, mouth ulcers and cold sores
• Athlete’s Foot
• Nappy rash and teething

 

Some pharmacies can also help you improve your long-term health and wellbeing by offering advice on topics such as diet and nutrition, physical activity, losing weight and stopping smoking. They can discuss management of long-term conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure.

Why should I visit my pharmacist?

Many pharmacies are open until late and at weekends and you don’t need to make an appointment, making them much more convenient than visiting your GP. You can pop in anytime and your local pharmacist will be more than happy to assist you. 

Pharmacists have studied for years to become experts in the use of medicines. They have to undertake a four-year degree course, then a further one year pre-registration training and pass an examination.

Where is my nearest pharmacy?

To find out where your nearest pharmacy is, visit the NHS Services Near You section and type in your postcode.

Self Care Prescription