Independent Prescribers Service
NHS Wales and integrated care boards (ICBs) have developed the Community Pharmacy Independent Prescribing Service to empower community pharmacist prescribers to support primary care clinical services.
A number of groups of healthcare professionals other than doctors and dentists are, subject to completing additional training, are now able to prescribe medicines for patients as Independent Prescribers. These healthcare professionals are collectively referred to as non-medical prescribers (NMPs). Independent prescribers are responsible and accountable for the assessment of patients with previously undiagnosed or diagnosed conditions and for decisions about the clinical management required, including prescribing.
Independent Prescribing is a free NHS Wales service. Qualified pharmacists who have received additional training to assess patients, can now appropriately diagnose acute conditions and prescribe appropriate medications to treat them. This usually includes treatment for minor infections with antibiotics, such as urinary tract infections and tonsillitis.
All newly qualified pharmacists joining the General Pharmaceutical Council’s register from August 2026 will be pharmacist independent prescribers.
Why choose Independent Prescribing instead of a GP appointment?
Immediate Relief: Access the necessary medications quickly, without waiting for a doctor’s appointment.
Convenient Healthcare: The Barry area now has 8 pharmacies who offer the Independent Prescribing Service, making it easy for patients to seek expert advice and treatment at their convenience.
Personalised Approach: The Independent Prescribing Pharmacist will take the time to understand your symptoms and tailor your treatment accordingly.
Comprehensive Services: From diagnosis to prescription and aftercare, pharmacies offer complete support for your acute conditions.
Common Acute Conditions They Can Help With
Urinary Tract Infections: After testing a urine sample we can provide antibiotics if necessary
Sore Throat Test & Treat: After taking a swab of the throat, they can confirm if you have tonsillitis and provide antibiotics if necessary
Ear Health: Ear infections, ear pain
Skin Conditions: Relief from eczema, impetigo, and other skin issues and minor infections
How Does Independent Prescribing Work?
Consultation: Visit one of your local pharmacies or call to book an appointment with them. Their prescribing pharmacist will discuss your symptoms and medical history in a private consultation room.
Assessment: The pharmacist will assess your condition (which may include further tests such as a urine dip or throat swab) and make an accurate diagnosis. If needed, they will refer you back to GP if the matter cannot be dealt with under this service.
Prescription: If necessary, the pharmacist will provide a prescription suitable for your needs.
Notification: The pharmacy will send a consultation note back to your GP to advise them of your illness and any treatment.
Which Pharmacies Offer this service?
- Aneurin Evans Pharmacy, CF62 5QN - 01446 735207 - Suspected Urinary Infections, Tonsillitis Test & Treat, Ear Pain/ Infection, Skin Infection, Sinus Pain/ Infection
- Allied Pharmacy, Waterfront Medical Centre - 01446 739949 - Tonsillitis Test & Treat
- Baileys M.W. Phillips, 8 Barry Road CF63 1BA 01446734983 - Suspected Urinary Infections
- Brockway Pharmacy, CF62 7FG- 01446 720588 - Suspected Urinary Infections, Tonsillitis Test & Treat
- High Street Pharmacy, CF62 7DX - 01446 733789 - Suspected Urinary Infections, Tonsillitis Test & Treat, Ear Pain/ Infection, Skin Infection, Sinus Pain/ Infection
- Highlight Pharmacy, CF62 8NX - 01446 746000 - Suspected Urinary Infections, Tonsillitis Test & Treat
- St Brides Pharmacy, CF62 9DN - 01446 743423 - Suspected Urinary Infections, Tonsillitis Test & Treat