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NHS Minor Ailment Scheme

If you don't pay for your prescriptions, you may be able to use the NHS Minor Ailment Scheme to get advice and, when appropriate, free treatment for certain common illnesses without seeing a GP

Help for common illnesses


If you want help dealing with a common illness such as a cold, cough or diarrhoea, you may be able to use the free NHS Minor Ailment Scheme at selected pharmacies, including some Boots pharmacies. Our pharmacist will be able to offer advice and may be able to offer you medicines for a minor illness without you having to book an appointment to see your GP.


Who is the service for?


Schemes vary between locations, but the NHS Minor Ailment Scheme is for adults and children who:


• Are registered with a GP surgery which is taking part in the scheme

• Want treatment for a minor illness included in your local scheme


Medicines can be supplied free of charge to the customer if they are exempt from NHS prescription charges.


The NHS Minor Ailment Scheme is available across Northern Ireland, Wales and Scotland but only in selected pharmacies across England. Ask your local Boots pharmacy whether they offer the scheme and they'll check if you're eligible to receive it.

HOW IT WORKS

STEP 1

Talk to a pharmacist about your illness and they will offer advice

STEP 2

If a medicine is needed, the pharmacist will check your eligibility and whether the illness is covered by the scheme

STEP 3

A suitable medicine may be offered to you*

*Charges will apply if you normally pay for your prescriptions. If you're exempt, for example people under 16 or over 60, then you won't pay for the medicine as this service is funded by the NHS.
What minor illnesses are covered?


Illnesses supported within the scheme may differ between locations. Some illnesses covered include:


• Back-ache, sprains and strains

• Colds

• Conjunctivitis

• Constipation

• Coughs

• Diarrhoea

• Earache

• Haemorrhoids

• Hay fever

• Head lice

• Headache and fever

• Heartburn and indigestion

• Insect bites and stings

• Mild eczema and dermatitis

• Minor fungal skin infections

• Mouth ulcers

• Nappy rash

• Sore throat

• Teething

• Threadworm

• Thrush


Benefits


• Convenient: No need to make an appointment

• Advice: Pharmacist can refer you to a GP if necessary

• Flexible: Many pharmacies are open at the weekend

*Subject to availability and clinician approval. Charges apply