The role of pharmacists has evolved over the years.
“Apart from our primary role of dispensing medication, we offer essential services such as screenings for preventable diseases, medication advice, and self-care medication. We play a key role in the health care continuum, hence Link’s positioning as a provider of ‘Good Health’,” says Nkazi Cingo of Link’s Luke pharmacy.
Among others, the types of services available to women include:
1. Medication during pregnancy
The pharmacist plays a key role during pregnancy, advising women on safe medications to use during pregnancy while also providing advice on prenatal vitamins and supplements
2. Medication management
Through dispensing and monitoring, pharmacists play a very important role in making sure that women receive correct medication and dosages, including counselling on possible side effects.
3. Preventative care
Pharmacists can also provide routine screenings for diabetes and blood pressure among others and suggest dietary and vitamin supplements while also assisting with smoking cessation.
4. Contraception
Talk to your Link pharmacist about birth control pills, patches, injections, intrauterine devices (IUD), and emergency contraception such as the morning-after pill. You can expect a private, non-judgmental conversation.
5. Hormone treatment
Hormone therapy can be required to manage conditions such as menopause or infertility. The pharmacist’s input is important to educate the customer on the proper use of medications, and any potential side effects and interactions.
6. Circle of Care
A Link pharmacy fulfils a key role in a community’s health and wellbeing eco-system. As part of the ‘circle of care’ Link pharmacists can refer you to an appropriate medical service provider when required for any of the services described above or any conditions requiring the attention or insight of a doctor or specialist.
7. Health awareness
Link also runs national campaigns such as Breast Cancer Awareness, which promote early detection.
“Link has served communities for over 30 years and our pharmacists – often the pharmacy owners – provide the caring environment where customers can talk about their health and wellbeing”.
While all reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information contained in this article, information may change or become dated, as new developments occur. The Link group shall not be held liable or accountable for the accuracy, completeness or correctness of any information for any purpose. No content in this article, irrespective of the date or reference source, should be viewed as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor, pharmacist or any other suitably qualified clinician.