See a pharmacist for ear infection treatment. No GP needed.
15 to 20 minutes
Free on the NHS via Pharmacy First
Children aged 1 to 17 years presenting with symptoms of acute otitis media (middle ear infection)
Pharmacy First is an NHS service that enables our pharmacists to assess and, where clinically appropriate, treat certain common conditions without the need for a GP appointment. Acute otitis media (middle ear infection) is one of the conditions covered. It is a common infection in children causing ear pain, fever, and sometimes discharge. In many cases, the infection resolves without antibiotics; however, our pharmacist will conduct a clinical assessment to determine the most appropriate course of action, which may include providing antibiotic treatment under specific clinical criteria, or directing the child to their GP if required.
A clinical consultation with our pharmacist to assess the child's symptoms and ear canals using an otoscope where appropriate.
Discussion of treatment options based on current NHS clinical pathways, including whether antibiotics are required
Supply of any appropriate treatment, or a referral letter to the child's GP if the condition falls outside the scope of this service.
Safety-netting advice for parents and carers on what to watch for and when to seek further help.
Parents in Halton, Harehills, Roundhay, and across Leeds can bring their children to Halton Pharmacy for a free NHS Pharmacy First ear infection assessment without needing a GP appointment. We understand how distressing ear infections can be for children and parents alike, and our pharmacists in Halton will conduct a thorough, compassionate clinical assessment. Halton Pharmacy is a trusted Pharmacy First provider serving families across Leeds.
Your child has an ear infection in Leeds and you cannot get a GP appointment? Halton Pharmacy in Halton provides free NHS Pharmacy First ear infection consultations for children aged 1 to 17 across Leeds. No appointment needed. Walk in to our Halton pharmacy and our qualified pharmacist will assess your child and provide appropriate treatment or a GP referral letter if required.
Most ear infections in children are caused by viruses or bacteria and resolve within a few days, with or without antibiotics. However, certain symptoms should prompt you to seek urgent medical attention: a very high temperature that does not respond to paracetamol or ibuprofen; significant swelling or redness behind the ear; a child who appears very unwell, drowsy, or difficult to rouse; or any concerns about the child's safety. If your child has a known history of perforated eardrum, recent ear surgery, or grommets, please inform our pharmacist before the consultation. Recurrent ear infections may warrant a referral to a specialist for further assessment.
Yes. The Pharmacy First ear infection service is fully funded by the NHS at no cost to patients.
Not always. Many ear infections in children resolve without antibiotics. Our pharmacist will follow NHS clinical guidelines to determine whether treatment is required.
The Pharmacy First ear infection service covers children aged 1 to 17 years.
If the pharmacist assesses that the condition requires further investigation or is outside the scope of this service, they will issue a referral letter for your GP.
Yes. The consultation takes place in our private consultation room.
Pharmacy No. 1039734
Trusted NHS provider
Private consultations
Experienced pharmacists
