Chemists get a check-up

OLDHAM’S pharmacy services are having a check-up — and residents can get involved in dispensing the right treatment.

Over the next few weeks NHS Oldham — the primary care trust responsible for local health services — will be looking at community-based pharmacies across the borough and asking local people for their views.

These will be collected via a short, confidential survey — and one lucky respondent will be rewarded for their time with a digital radio.

The aim is to make sure that the services offered are exactly what people need, and that they are getting the support they need to look after their own, and their family’s, health and well-being.

NHS Oldham wants to find out exactly what services are currently offered now and if they are working, what services people want and need, and if these can be provided.

People will also be asked about their experiences of pharmacy services, if they know what is on offer and how they rate them overall.

Pharmaceutical adviser Peter Welsby said: “It is very important that we get the opinions of local people because they are the experts on what services are needed locally.”

Residents’ views will be added to those of pharmacists to create a “big picture” on which to base future plans.

Pharmacists can give advice on many minor health problems, including coughs and colds, and about general health and well-being — often saving people an unnecessary trip to their GP.

To take part in the survey, which closes on March 9, contact Dee Radcliffe on 0161-622 4310 or e-mail d.radcliffe@nhs.net and request a copy and a freepost envelope.

Alternatively visit www.oldham.nhs.uk/pharmsurvey.htm or pick up a copy from your local pharmacy. Surveys can be provided in other languages upon request.