Get your sore throat checked by a pharmacist, with treatment or advice there and then, without seeing your GP
A sore throat can be painful and worrying, but most clear up on their own. If you have one, you can be assessed here at Porthcawl Pharmacy by a trained pharmacist, without needing to see your GP first.
What happens at the appointment
The pharmacist will talk with you privately about your symptoms and how long you have had them. They may then take a throat swab to check for Strep A, a bacterial infection. Not everyone needs a swab — the pharmacist will explain whether one would help.
Once the assessment is complete, the pharmacist will talk you through what is causing your sore throat and what to do next. Depending on the results, they may give you advice on easing the symptoms at home, or supply paracetamol, ibuprofen or antibiotics.
Why antibiotics are not always the answer
Around 9 out of 10 sore throats are caused by a virus. Antibiotics do not work on viruses, so they will not help in these cases. The pharmacist will make sure you get the right treatment for your particular sore throat, and clear advice on looking after yourself while it settles.
How to arrange it
This is an NHS service. Book online, pop in or give us a call and we will arrange a time to see you.