Pharmacists
Your local pharmacist (sometimes called chemist) is able to give you expert advice on many conditions and minor injuries. Pharmacists can also give advice on a range of matters such as healthy eating, stopping smoking and emergency contraception. You do not need an appointment to see a pharmacist. Many are now open outside usual business hours. See the NHS Choices website for the opening hours of your nearest pharmacy or download our Bexley pharmacy services and hours guide on the right hand side.
How do I find my nearest pharmacy?
To find your closest pharmacy, enter your postcode in the Find a local service search or you can view the attached list which outlines Bexley's pharmacy services and opening hours via the right hand link.
Services you pharmacy can offer:
- Chlamydia screening and treatment
- Stop smoking support and treatments
- Emergency hormonal contraception
- Advice on using medicines safely
In the UK, all medicines available from a pharmacy are tested and authorised to make sure they are safe when used correctly. Pharmacists are experts in the safe use of medicines. They will help advise you about any side effects, especially when you are taking a combination of different medicines.
Always remember to tell your pharmacist if you are:
- allergic to any medicines
- taking prescribed medicines
- taking over the counter medicines or any herbal or vitamin supplements
- pregnant or breastfeeding
- buying or collecting treatments for someone else.
NHS prescription charges
From 1 April 2009, the NHS prescription charge increased from by 10 pence per item to £7.20 (£14.40 per pair of elastic hosiery). These charges remain the same for 2010.
Prescription: £7.20 (Previously £7.10)
12-month prepayment certificate: £104.00 (Previously £102.50)
3-month prepayment certificate: £28.25 (Previously £27.85)
The Department of Health website has the most up to date information on NHS costs and exemptions.
How can I find out about urgent and out of hours care?
Bexley offers some after hours pharmacy services which are open at night, on Sundays and on public holidays. To find out which pharmacies offer these services you can:
- contact Bexley Care Trust on 0208 298 6097 between 9am and 5pm
- check your local pharmacy opening times using our Find a local service search
- download the Bexley pharmacy services and hours guide on the right.
What other services are available?
Your local pharmacist may also provide a range of additional services including stop smoking support, chlamydia screening and treatment, You can download a guide to the services each Bexley pharmacy offers via the right hand side link.
How do I complain about my treatment?
If you wish to make a complaint about the care or service provided by your pharmacist, contact the person responsible for complaints at the pharmacy. You can make your complaint verbally or in writing and you should receive a written response from the pharmacy within 10 working days.
