Migraine and acne included in new prescribing Pharmacy First pathways
NHS England has expanded the 'Pharmacy First' scheme to allow independent prescribing pharmacists to treat five additional conditions, including acne and migraines. The initiative aims to increase patient access to care, though some industry representatives have raised concerns about funding.
Why it matters
This policy shift represents a significant change in healthcare delivery, shifting more diagnostic and prescribing responsibilities to community pharmacists to alleviate pressure on primary care.
Independent prescribing pharmacists in England will be able to prescribe for migraine, rhinitis, ear infections in adults, acne and scabies as part of the Pharmacy First scheme, NHS England has announced.
In a press release published on 10 September 2026, NHS England said that the five conditions will be added to the existing seven clinical pathways available via Pharmacy First for pharmacies that employ an independent prescriber.
NHS England noted that from autumn 2026, these pharmacists will be able to provide prescriptions for all Pharmacy First conditions, including the additional five, and the pharmacy contraception service.
Once fully rolled out, up to 3 million pharmacy appointments for the five new conditions could take place in community pharmacies each year, it added.
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