NHS England has announced that patients will be able to get treatment for five more everyday conditions at pharmacies.

People will be able to get on-the-spot treatment for acne, migraines, scabies, ear infections and rhinitis from participating pharmacies.

The change will help to ease pressure on GPs and A&E departments.

NHS figures show there were more than 77,000 hospital admissions for diseases of the ear, 47,500 linked to migraines, 5,000 for vasomotor and allergic rhinitis, and 681 for scabies in 2024/25.

Evidence suggests 2 to 3 million consultations for the 5 conditions could take place each year in community pharmacies.

Dr Amanda Doyle, National Director for Primary Care and Community Services at NHS England said: “Thanks to community pharmacy teams, millions of people have received treatment for common conditions quickly and conveniently on their local high streets with the NHS determined to make it as easy as possible for people to get help.

“As the NHS steps up winter preparations, we want to make sure that patients can get as much support as possible in their communities, so they do not have to be admitted to hospital unnecessarily.

“That’s why participating pharmacies will start offering help for new common conditions such as acne, migraines and ear infections – without needing to get a GP appointment first – so they’re freed up for people who need them most in the colder months”.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham said: “People are fed up with the scramble for routine appointments. They want help when they need it, close to home. That’s exactly what this delivers – no more taking time off work or waiting hours to get seen.

“For 5 more common conditions, you’ll be able to walk into your local pharmacy and get treated on the spot.

“This is change families will feel in their day-to-day lives as we build a better Britain. Treating people closer to home means catching problems earlier, easing pressure on GPs and A&E, and giving people back precious time”.