1. Book online or pop in for an assessment
For just £19, one of our IP Pharmacists will complete an assessment of your symptoms in a private consultation room, and check for any signs that may require urgent medical attention.
Pharmacy services
Independent Prescribing Service in England
Get help with certain health concerns from a specially-trained prescribing pharmacist*
only £19
No need to wait for a GP appointment, come in to see us today!
Need more than just over-the-counter medicine? Our Independent Prescribing Pharmacists can assess certain health concerns, offer clinical advice, and – where appropriate – prescribe treatment without you needing to see a GP.
Appointments and walk-in services are available at selected Well pharmacies in England, subject to eligibility, suitability and pharmacist availability.
Not in England? Find your local IP service:
What is an Independent Prescribing Pharmacist?
An Independent Prescribing (sometimes shortened to “IP”) Pharmacist is a qualified pharmacist who has completed additional clinical training, allowing them to legally prescribe within specialised health areas. This means patients can be assessed and treated beyond that of typical over-the-counter medications.
An IP Pharmacist can assess a select range of health conditions, make clinical decisions, prescribe suitable medication within their area of clinical competence, and offer ongoing support after your initial appointment. This gives you a convenient, trusted and affordable way to manage your health concerns without waiting for a GP appointment.
An IP Pharmacist will only prescribe treatment when it’s clinically appropriate, but if the service isn’t suitable for you then they can still advise on next steps and how to seek further medical support.
“We know that waiting for a GP appointment can feel stressful when you’re worried about your own health, or the health of a family member. Our Independent Prescribing Pharmacists are here to provide fast, convenient care to assess acute symptoms in a single visit. We aim to provide expert care and advice to give patients the support they need.”
Last reviewed: October 2026
Next review: October 2029
Reviewed by: Emma Kilbride, IP Pharmacist
How our Independent Prescribing Service works in England
2. Receive specialist advice
Based on your symptoms and their severity, the IP Pharmacist will provide advice and recommend treatment where appropriate.
3. Prescription & next steps
If suitable, the IP Pharmacist will prescribe you the appropriate treatment along with instructions for how to take it, and what to do if your symptoms persist. A follow-up consultation can also be arranged to monitor progress.
Conditions covered by our Independent Prescribing Service:*
- Chest infections
- Ear, Nose and Throat infections
- Sinusitis
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Skin Conditions and Acne
- Migraine
- Fungal infections and Oral Thrush
- Selected minor illnesses
*Subject to eligibility, suitability and availability of a prescribing pharmacist and at the professional discretion of the pharmacist.
Pharmacy First at Well
If your condition isn’t listed or your local Well doesn’t offer the Independent Prescribing Service, you may still be able to get treatment via the NHS Pharmacy First service. The service allows you to get support and potential treatment for a range of common illnesses from your local pharmacy, without the need for a GP appointment.
Well pharmacies that currently offer the Independent Prescribing Service
| Pharmacy name | Postcode |
|---|---|
| Well Whickham - St Marys Green | NE16 4DN |
| Well Cramlington - Village Surgery HC | NE23 6US |
| Well Wallsend - Crow Bank | NE28 7PG |
| Well Wickersley - Poplar Glade | S66 2JQ |
| Well Rainford - 36 Church Road | WA11 8HD |
| Haslingden - Manchester Road | BB4 5SL |
| Well Castleton - Elizabeth Street | OL11 3HY |
| Well Northenden - 352-354 Palatine Road | M22 4HD |
| Well Poynton - Park Lane | SK12 1RE |
| Well Wistaston - The Precinct | CW2 8UR |
| Well Bradeley - Chell Heath MC | ST6 7NN |
| Well Chell - Biddulph Road | ST6 6SW |
| Well South Normanton - Market Place | DE55 2BN |
| Well New Ollerton - Forest Road | NG22 9PL |
| Well Coalville - Long Lane | LE67 4DR |
| Well Earl Shilton - Heath Lane | LE9 7PB |
| Well Gosport - Bury Road | PO12 3PR |
| Well Horfield - Horfield HC | BS7 9RR |
| Well Plymouth - Ham Green | PL2 2NH |
| Well Harrogate - Kingswood MC | HG2 7SA |
| Well Peverell - Peverell Park Road | PL2 3PG |
| Shaw Heath | SK3 8DN |
FAQs
No. The pharmacist will only prescribe medicine when it is clinically appropriate. Depending on the assessment, you may receive self-care advice, another treatment recommendation or a referral to a different healthcare service.
Yes, but the IP Pharmacist will only prescribe antibiotics where clinically appropriate.
Yes, with your consent, details of your consultation and any medicines prescribed will usually be shared with your GP practice to help keep your medical records up to date.
If the service is deemed unsuitable for you, the pharmacist will explain why and advise you of the most appropriate next steps, which may include contacting your GP, NHS 111 or an urgent healthcare service.
No. The NHS doesn’t currently provide the IP Service in England, but Well Pharmacy offer a private service for a flat £19 fee. This covers a thorough consultation and assessment of your condition in a private pharmacy consultation room, prescription where appropriate and any treatment needed.
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