Module overview

Conjunctivitis is one of the most frequently encountered eye conditions in community pharmacy and remains a common reason for patients to seek advice without a GP appointment. 

Although often described as a ‘minor’ condition, it illustrates several broader challenges in primary care: rising demand, limited access to GP appointments, patient expectations concerning antibiotics and the expanding clinical contribution of community pharmacists.

People may present because of discomfort, anxiety about infectivity, pressure from employers or schools, or uncertainty about whether treatment is needed. For community pharmacists, conjunctivitis therefore provides a useful case study in how care can move along a spectrum: from reassurance and self-care advice through structured NHS services delivered under PGDs
to independent prescribing where appropriate.