Sore throat assessment in Glasgow,
free on the NHS.
Our prescribing pharmacist at Muirend Pharmacy can carry out a clinical assessment using the FeverPAIN scoring system and provide treatment where appropriate — no GP wait.
Cost
Free NHS service
Eligibility
Adults & children 5+
Duration
15 minutes
Who this is for
This service is for adults and children aged 5 and over with symptoms of acute sore throat or acute pharyngitis. Eligibility is confirmed during assessment.
Common symptoms
- ·Pain or scratchiness at the back of the throat
- ·Pain or difficulty when swallowing
- ·Swollen or tender glands in the neck
- ·A raised temperature or fever
- ·A hoarse voice or difficulty speaking
This service is not suitable if you
- ·Are under 5 years old
- ·Have severe difficulty swallowing or breathing
- ·Have a stiff neck or drooling
- ·Are significantly immunocompromised
- ·Have had symptoms lasting more than 7 days without improvement
Our pharmacist will always direct you to the right care if you don't meet the criteria.
What happens at your appointment
01
Book
Book online or by phone. A health questionnaire will be sent to complete before your appointment.
02
Assessment
Our pharmacist uses the FeverPAIN clinical scoring system to assess whether your sore throat is likely bacterial or viral.
03
Decision
Based on the clinical score, treatment is provided where appropriate. Most sore throats are viral and resolve on their own.
04
Advice
Whether or not treatment is indicated, you leave with clear self-care advice and guidance on when to seek further help.
When to seek urgent care
Go to A&E or call 999 immediately if you have severe difficulty breathing or swallowing, drooling, a muffled voice, are unable to open your mouth fully, or have a swelling visible at the back of the throat.
These may indicate a more serious condition requiring emergency treatment.
Clinically reviewed by
James McKeever
Superintendent Pharmacist · GPhC reg. 1042294
Last reviewed: 17 June 2026