Help Us Help You by choosing pharmacy first

Sefton residents are being reminded they can get expert advice about any minor health concerns they may have from their local pharmacy, saving them a trip to their doctor’s surgery.

That’s the message from health commissioners in the borough as part of the latest phase of the national ‘Help Us, Help You’ campaign, focusing on the range of services and support available from pharmacies.

Pharmacy teams offer a fast and convenient clinical service for minor health concerns with no appointment needed and use of a private consultation room should it be required

Susanne Lynch, head of medicines management at NHS South Sefton Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and NHS Southport and Formby CCG said: "I urge everyone to make full use of their local pharmacist all year round; they use their clinical expertise together with their practical knowledge to give you the best advice.

“Health services can often become really busy and overstretched over winter. By visiting your local pharmacy with any minor health concerns, you will avoid waiting for an appointment.

“Our pharmacists can advise you on what over the counter medicines you may need in this cold weather and let you know about any side effects of medication so it is beneficial to ask their advice.”

According to NHS England 27 per cent of GP appointments in England could potentially be treated elsewhere. You can simply walk into your pharmacy, without an appointment and they will be able to offer you advice.

Help us, help you, before it gets worse. Visit www.nhs.uk/pharmacyadvice for more information.

Pic caption: Susanne Lynch, head of medicines management at the CCGs in Sefton