From 1 July 2022, Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) will be dissolved, and Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) will take over the responsibility for NHS functions and budgets. We will become part of NHS Humber and North Yorkshire ICB. You can continue to use this website to find the information you need, which remains relevant for the Hull area.

Minor ailments scheme

Everyone can go to their pharmacist for advice or to buy a medicine for a minor illness or ailment. The minor ailment scheme is an NHS service for anyone who does not pay prescription charges, including children under 16. After you speak to the pharmacist, they may be able to give you medicines free of charge or without you needing an appointment with your doctor.

There are 72 pharmacies in Hull where you can use the minor ailment scheme, you do not need an appointment and you can attend at a time which suits you.

To be eligible to use the scheme you must be registered with a Hull GP and go to a Hull pharmacy that is in the scheme. You must also not pay for your prescriptions. You will need to show you are eligible to take part in the scheme.

If you are not eligible to access medicines through this scheme, you can still ask for free advice and guidance from your pharmacist.

Click here to see which pharmacies run the scheme.

The pharmacist will ask you some questions about your symptoms, any medication you are currently taking and any allergies to medicine you may have. They will then give you advice on how to best manage your symptoms and will be able to give you medicine, if you need it, and advice on how and when to take this.

Just like when visiting your doctor, all information you give is confidential and any medication you are given is only to be used by yourself and taken as directed.

Illnesses and ailments covered by the minor ailment scheme include:

  • Acne
  • Allergic / Contact dermatitis
  • Athlete’s foot
  • Cold sores
  • Conjunctivitis – allergic and bacterial
  • Constipation
  • Coughs and colds / flu / high temperature / post vaccine fever prophylaxis
  • Cystitis in adult females
  • Dandruff
  • Diarrhoea
  • Dry eyes
  • Ear wax
  • Eczema and dry or itchy skin
  • Gingivostomatitis (mouth or gum swelling)
  • Haemorrhoids  (piles)
  • Hay fever / allergic rhinitis
  • Head lice
  • Indigestion / heartburn / nausea /tummy upset / vomiting
  • Insect bites and stings
  • Mouth ulcers
  • Nasal congestion
  • Nappy rash
  • Pain – dental, period, back, head, ear and soft tissue
  • Sore throat
  • Teething
  • Thread worm
  • Thrush – oral and vaginal
  • Warts and verrucae

Your pharmacist will also be able to advise if you need to visit your GP or if you require medication which only a GP can prescribe to you.

If you’re not sure if you are eligible to take part in the minor ailment scheme then check with your local pharmacy. You can find your local pharmacy here. Alternatively call NHS 111.

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