Welcome to the inaugural edition of our "Did You Know & Myth Busting" editorial articles, where we uncover the hidden gems and dispel common misconceptions in the world of healthcare. Today, we delve into the realm of pharmacy services, shedding light on the plethora of offerings beyond the conventional supply of medicines and prescriptions.
Jack and Phoebe journeyed to The Strand pharmacy in Kirkholt, Rochdale, to meet with pharmacist and co-owner Sadhna Sanghvi on April 18th.
Pharmacies are often synonymous with medication supply, ensuring patients receive their prescriptions promptly and accurately. However, they are also bastions of health education and support. At The Strand pharmacy, patients benefit from a variety of supplementary services aimed at enhancing their well-being.
One such service is the New Medication Service, a personalised program where pharmacists educate patients on new medications, such as inhalers, ensuring they understand proper usage and offering follow-up check-ups to monitor efficacy. This service acts as a gateway to other healthcare avenues, including smoking cessation programs and living well initiatives.
Moreover, pharmacies offer a Minor Ailments Service, providing swift resolution for common maladies at no cost to eligible patients. From asthma checks to emergency contraception, your local pharmacy is a one-stop destination for various healthcare needs, just make sure and clarity your local pharmacy offers these services.
But the offerings don't stop there. Pharmacies boasts an array of services, including electronic prescription management, monitored dosage systems, and private consultations. Additionally, they participate in the Pharmacy First Service, tackling seven common conditions without the need for a GP appointment, streamlining healthcare access and alleviating strain on primary care providers.
Yet, misconceptions abound. Some patients can expect to walk in and be sorted straight away when obtaining prescriptions, unaware of the behind-the-scenes processes. From doctor's signing a prescription to dispensing and pharmacist verification, the journey may entail a brief wait, particularly during peak times. However, patience yields rewards, ensuring optimal care and medication safety.
It is extremely important to note that not every pharmacy offers all of these services - please check with your local nominated pharmacy first!
At Rochdale Health Alliance (RHA), we are committed to serving the healthcare needs of our community in HMR. Through informative initiatives like this series, we aim to empower individuals with knowledge and promote informed healthcare decisions. As we embark on this journey together, we invite you, our readers, to share your thoughts and suggest topics you'd like us to explore further.
Stay tuned for more myth-busting adventures and uncover the hidden truths of healthcare with RHA.
What would you like to learn more about next? Share your ideas in the comments below!
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