Patients encouraged to ‘ask your pharmacist’

It’s national ‘Ask Your Pharmacist Week’ from Monday 31 October to Monday 7 November.

The theme this year is ‘now at your local pharmacy’ and highlights the new NHS services that have been introduced in community pharmacy over the past few years, alongside the recent evolution of pharmacy practice.

Pharmacies are part of the NHS family and the range of clinical services provided by community pharmacies has expanded significantly in recent years.

Claire Hand, Lead Medicines Optimisation Pharmacy Technician at NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin said: “Pharmacy is a hugely valuable part of the NHS family. Available in your local village or town, these teams of clinical experts have many years’ training and experience of helping patients with colds, coughs, tummy trouble, skin irritation and mild illnesses. They can also monitor your blood pressure, and provide help with quitting smoking.

“Pharmacists can offer advice, over-the-counter treatments and signpost to further services if required. You can also have your flu and covid vaccinations at your local pharmacy.

“So, for NHS services, convenient access to medicines, support for healthy living and prompt clinical advice, Ask Your Pharmacist!”

You can book the COVID-19 autumn booster through the National Booking Service online or by calling 119. For a full list of pharmacies offering a free NHS flu vaccination please click here