Pharmacists, traditionally called chemists, are experts in medicines and how they work. Their qualifications and training provide them with the clinical expertise and practical knowledge to ensure you receive a safe supply and appropriate advice on using your medicines. As NHS healthcare professionals they have a key role in providing quality healthcare.

Community pharmacies, or local chemists, are accessible and convenient. They are often open late in the evenings and 6 days a week. There is likely to be one near where you live or work and there is usually no need to make an appointment. Make your pharmacist your first port of call for free and confidential health advice.

We answer some common health questions on this site, but everyone is different and your local pharmacist can offer you precise advice, tailored to your needs.

Pharmacists must follow a Code of Ethics produced by the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain. The code highlights fundamental duties of all pharmacists and a number of principles on which the code is based.

As with many other health professions, the pharmacist must respect the confidentiality of any information in the course of professional practice, never disclosing information to others without the patient's consent.

If a pharmacist breaches the code of ethics, they could have their name removed from the Society's register and subsequently be unable to practise.

To qualify as a pharmacist in Great Britain you need:

• A-level chemistry plus other A-/AS-levels such as biology and mathematics
• A four-year Master of Pharmacy degree from a UK school of pharmacy
• One year's practical training in a pharmacy after completing the degree under the supervision of an experienced and qualified pharmacist. (preregistration training)
• To pass an examination at the end of the year of preregistration training in order to register with the Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain.