More and more people are popping into their pharmacy for minor ailments, so it's good to be aware of exactly what services you can avail of from your local pharmacist. It’s also important to note that the pharmacist is not a replacement for your GP and if you have serious health concerns, the doctor should be your first port of call.
That said, most pharmacists, like Donal O’Sullivan, Boots pharmacist who was recently on Today with Maura and Dáithí, explained that apart from dispensing prescriptions, he’s also trained in administering the Flu vaccine, blood pressure testing, emergency contraception advice, travel vaccinations, inhaler techniques and much more.
Over the years, pharmacy across all sectors has contributed much to society. From its apothecary roots enabling anyone to have access to healthcare, to scientific endeavour that underpins much of pharmaceutical discovery and development, to innovating to deliver best care for patients.
Things have changed so much over the years, you can now just send a photo of your prescription through an app and you’ll be notified when it’s ready to pick up. Another big change is you can now find a private consultation room in all pharmacies so you don’t have to feel worried about discussing your private issues on the shop floor, so even if you just want to have a chat and get some reassurance, you know you’ll be met with a safe place and sound advice. Here Donal gives more insight into the services provided by your pharmacist.
What changes have occurred in the past few years?
In recent years, the pharmacy customer journey has become more digitised which should improve how patients interact with pharmacists and how they receive their medication. Having the ability to order prescriptions at home means the patient has more time with their pharmacist in store to discuss how they are, their medication and any important information relating to their treatment.
What are the most common ailments patients come to you in a pharmacy for before seeing a GP?
Customers often consult with us about a number of ailments, for example, the common cold. We will ask them about the type of symptoms they have and how long they have had them.
Then from a safety point of view, we check with them on any other medicines they are taking, any medical complications or allergies. From here we can give advice and recommend products for symptom relief.
Other minor ailments can be anything from eye infections, diarrhoea and head lice. Along with minor ailments we also have patients come to us to talk about cancer, whether that is their medication, side effects or generally for support whilst they or their loved ones are going through treatment.
What are the most common checks you get asked for and what do they entail?
- Blood pressure monitoring is a big one. Half of people with high blood pressure aren't aware they even have the condition. High blood pressure can affect people of all ages but they may not always have symptoms. If it goes untreated, it may lead to conditions like heart disease or a stroke.
- Diabetes check is another thing that many pharmacists can conduct. The most common form is Type 2, which occurs when your body either doesn't make enough insulin or the insulin isn't working properly. Type 1 diabetes occurs when your body cannot make any insulin at all. Most pharmacies will offer a simple diabetes check that will help to establish whether you have it or not. Once the assessment has been carried out the pharmacist will decide whether or not you need to be referred to your GP for further treatment or advice.
- Some vaccinations available in pharmacies are Pneumococcal, Shingles, Winter Flu Vaccination, and even Travel Vaccinations. Some travel vaccinations will have to have a prescription from your GP or an online doctor but it can make it more convenient to be able to go into your local pharmacy to receive your vaccination.
For more information visit www.Boots.ie
