Public and patient information
This section provides trusted information for patients and the public about pharmacy in Great Britain, how pharmacists support health and wellbeing, and how to access pharmacy services.
As the professional leadership body for pharmacists and pharmaceutical scientists the Royal College of Pharmacy advances the safe and effective use of medicines and supports pharmacists to deliver excellence in patient care across the health system.
What is a pharmacist?
Pharmacists are healthcare professionals with expert knowledge of medicines, and how they are used to treat patients.
They help people use medicines correctly, provide trusted health advice, and support the prevention and management of illness.
Pharmacists work as part of wider healthcare teams across a range of healthcare settings, supporting other health professionals and patients at different stages of care.
Where do pharmacists work?
Pharmacists work in many different health and care settings. Wherever they work, pharmacists use their expertise in medicines to support safe, effective care and advice for patients and the public.
Community pharmacists
Community pharmacists work in local pharmacies and are often the first place people go for health advice. They can help with minor illnesses, advise on medicines, and provide a range of NHS services.
GP practice pharmacists
GP practice pharmacists work as part of the primary care team. They help manage medicines, review prescriptions, support people with complex conditions, and work with GPs to improve patient safety.
Hospital pharmacists
Hospital pharmacists manage medicines for patients in hospital. They advise patients on new medications and how to manage their own treatment, take part in ward rounds, and help ensure medicines are used safely during admission and discharge.
Care home pharmacists
Care home pharmacists support people living in care homes by reviewing medicines and improving how they are used. They work with other health and care staff and GPs to reduce risks and improve continuity of care.
Find trusted health information
This section helps you find clear, reliable information about pharmacy services and how to access support when you need it. It brings together trusted guidance from the NHS and other official organisations to help you make informed decisions about your health and medicines.
How a pharmacist can help you
Community pharmacists work in local pharmacies and provide advice, treatment and services for common health problems. They can help with minor illnesses, advise on medicines, and support your health without the need for an appointment. Find out more about pharmacies on NHS England, NHS Scotland and NHS Wales (WMIC).
Find a pharmacy
The NHS provides online tools to help you find a pharmacy near you, including opening times and available services. Use the official NHS services to find a pharmacy in England, Scotland, or Wales.
General public health information
For up-to-date information about health conditions, treatments and medicines, the NHS provides trusted guidance for patients and the public. Visit the NHS websites for England, Scotland or Wales.
The pharmacy regulator
All pharmacists, pharmacy technicians and registered pharmacy premises in Great Britain are regulated by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), which sets professional standards and maintains the public register. You can check a pharmacy professional’s registration status on the GPhC website.
Interested in joining the pharmacy team?
If you are interested in a career in pharmacy, NHS Careers provides information about different roles, training routes and opportunities across Great Britain. Find out more about careers in pharmacy through the NHS Careers Pharmacist portal.