Do I have to pay for Pharmacy First Service in Scotland?

No. Pharmacy First Service is provided here as an NHS service and is free to everyone who is eligible, including students, new arrivals to the city and visitors who are not registered with a local GP. There is no referral or paperwork needed.

Can I have Pharmacy First Service done in central Edinburgh?

Yes. Pharmacy First Service is available at Forrest Pharmacy, 45 Forrest Road, Edinburgh EH1 2QP, as part of our NHS Services. We are in the city centre, a short walk from the Old Town, Southside and Newington, with bus routes stopping nearby. Opening hours are Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Book online or call 0131 225 7770.

Can I just walk in for Pharmacy First Service?

Walk-ins are welcome, and we keep appointments available each day for people who need to be seen quickly. Booking ahead, online or on 0131 225 7770, is the best way to secure a time that suits you. If you are unsure whether this is the right service, ask to speak to a pharmacist when you call.

Pharmacy First Service

Walk in and speak to a pharmacist for quick help with common conditions. We listen, examine where it is appropriate, and provide treatment or referral without a GP appointment.

lady in white dress shirt holding white box

The Forrest Pharmacy & Travel and Health Clinic shopfront on Forrest Road, Edinburgh

94% of minor ailments are effectively managed in pharmacies.

NHS

a pile of pills sitting next to each other on top of a table

Availability: NHS service
Clinic: NHS Services
Referral: None needed
Registration: Not required
Where: 45 Forrest Road, Edinburgh EH1 2QP

Pharmacy First Service, Explained

Patients can visit a pharmacy for advice and treatment of common minor ailments without needing a GP appointment.

Pharmacists assess, diagnose, and provide medication where appropriate, reducing pressure on GPs and A&E.

Why People Choose Pharmacy First Service

Same‑Day Care

Quick access to a pharmacist for minor health issues.

Clear Diagnosis

Focused questions and checks.

Treatment Provided

Treatment or referral as needed.

Advice Given

Know what to expect and when to seek help.

How it Works

What Happens at Your Pharmacy First Service Appointment

Visit Our Pharmacy

In central Edinburgh, a short walk from the Old Town and the Meadows

Speak To Our Friendly Team

Worried about a minor ailment or common condition? Speak to us today

Receive Treatment without GP visit

Treatment that works, without the wait

Booking

Request Your Pharmacy First Service Appointment

Online booking is coming soon. In the meantime, leave your details below and a member of our team will call you back to arrange a convenient time, usually the same day.

Prefer to Call?

Speak to a member of the team directly. We are happy to answer any questions and book you in over the phone.

0131 225 7770

Monday to Friday: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Saturday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Or visit us at 45 Forrest Road, Edinburgh EH1 2QP.

Pharmacy First Service: Your Questions Answered

Do I have to pay for Pharmacy First Service in Scotland?: No. Pharmacy First Service is provided here as an NHS service and is free to everyone who is eligible, including students, new arrivals to the city and visitors who are not registered with a local GP. There is no referral or paperwork needed.
Can I have Pharmacy First Service done in central Edinburgh?: Yes. Pharmacy First Service is available at Forrest Pharmacy, 45 Forrest Road, Edinburgh EH1 2QP, as part of our NHS Services. We are in the city centre, a short walk from the Old Town, Southside and Newington, with bus routes stopping nearby. Opening hours are Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Book online or call 0131 225 7770.
Can I just walk in for Pharmacy First Service?: Walk-ins are welcome, and we keep appointments available each day for people who need to be seen quickly. Booking ahead, online or on 0131 225 7770, is the best way to secure a time that suits you. If you are unsure whether this is the right service, ask to speak to a pharmacist when you call.

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