Pharmacies have emerged as key players in the healthcare circle of care. The doctor is the expert on diagnosing, developing a treatment plan and evaluating your health, but the pharmacist is your medication expert (although many pharmacies also offer clinic services).
John Hopkins Medicine – a biomedical researcher and educator of medical students, scientists, and healthcare professionals – lists four areas where your local pharmacy can play an important role in your good health and UPD’s (United Pharmaceutical Distributors) Janine Openshaw adds a fifth benefit.
1. Pill dispensers.
A basic but important patient need, especially when you are taking multiple medicines and cannot remember whether you’ve taken the medication or not, or what medication to take and when.
2. Affordable alternatives.
This is a valuable service, especially when trying to preserve medical aid savings or when you don’t have medical aid. The pharmacist can substitute a generic prescription or call your doctor to find an appropriate alternative.
3. Advice about over-the-counter remedies and supplements.
The range of products available can be overwhelming, and the pharmacist can help you choose a product which meets your needs and budget. Some medications can interact with others being taken, so it makes sense to talk to your pharmacist before selecting a product off the shelf.
4. Vaccinations.
It’s flu season now, so it’s a good time to get your annual flu shot. An appointment is not needed, and you can also check whether there are any reasons why you should not get a flu vaccine. If you’re uncertain about the flu shot based on what you’ve heard from friends or family, the pharmacist will debunk any myths and answer your concerns.
5. Preventable disease screening.
High blood pressure and Type 2 Diabetes are two diseases often referred to as ‘silent killers’, yet early detection and treatment can prevent serious health problems. Together, both screenings will take less than two minutes, and you’ll have the peace-of-mind that you’re free of these diseases, how you can avoid them, or be referred to your doctor for treatment.
UPD’s Janine Openshaw says that many of Link’s pharmacies have been pillars of good health in communities for decades, and the pharmacists – who are often the pharmacy owner – are easily accessible and open to talking to you and guiding you.
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.
References:
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/your-pharmacist-a-partner-for-good-health
https://www.diabetes.org.uk/about-diabetes/looking-after-diabetes/blood-pressure