Conclusion

Infective conjunctivitis provides a clear illustration of how pharmacy practice continues to evolve. From reassurance and OTC advice through PGD-supported medicines supply to independent prescribing, pharmacists are increasingly central to delivering accessible, evidence-based eye care.

Experience from Wales and Scotland shows what can be achieved when commissioning, governance and professional capability align – positioning conjunctivitis as a practical and
credible example of ‘pharmacy first’ care in action.

Resources

• cks.nice.org.uk: NICE Clinical Knowledge Summaries (CKS) for assessment, management, self-care advice and referral criteria for infective and allergic conjunctivitis in England
• nhs.uk/conditions/conjunctivitis: Patient-facing guidance, useful for aligning pharmacy advice with national NHS messaging and managing patient expectations
• communitypharmacy.scot.nhs.uk: NHS Pharmacy First Scotland clinical guidance for eye conditions, including conjunctivitis
• gov.uk/government/organisations/uk-health-security-agency: UK Health Security Agency guidance supporting infection prevention, hygiene advice and antimicrobial stewardship
• england.nhs.uk/antimicrobial-resistance: National resources supporting appropriate antibiotic use
  cppe.ac.uk: Centre for Pharmacy Postgraduate Education (CPPE) education and training resources for community pharmacists in England, including consultation skills, self-care, minor illness management and prescribing development
  wmic.wales.nhs.uk: Welsh Medicines Advice Service patient group directions.