ASK THE PHARMACIST

Colin Dougall, clinical pharmacist at the King fauns Drive Lloyds Pharmacy in Drumchapel, Glasgow, talks about his career helping others look after themselves

Q What made you want to be a pharmacist?

My initial interest in pharmacy came from a curiosity in how medicines worked in the body. The more I learnt about pharmacy and what the role of a pharmacist was I realised it was a perfect fit.

Q How was the training and what did it involve?

I trained to be a pharmacist for four years at the University of Strathclyde for a degree in pharmacy. I then worked for a year as a pre-registration pharmacist to put what I had learnt into practice and show my competence as a pharmacist. Within my degree I learnt about medicines and how they are used to treat different conditions.

Q How long have you been a pharmacist?

Twenty-seven years.

Q Best bit about the job?

When patients come back to say thanks when they have taken my advice and it has made a difference to their health.

Q Have you ever really helped someone and what are you proudest of in your professional life?

I can make a real difference to patients every day. Whether it’s offering advice on managing a long-term condition or spotting the signs of hypoglycaemia in diabetics, or symptoms of a heart attack, interventions from pharmacists can potentially save people’s lives.

Q Do you have a particular area of interest?

My main interest is running prescribing clinics in conjunction with the local GP practices.

Q What sort of customers do you particularly enjoy helping?

Customers who take a real interest in making changes to their lifestyle and therefore make big improvements to their health. Also, I now have a role in teaching newly qualified pharmacists and enjoy sharing my experience to help them learn.

Q What are the main healthcare concerns of your customers at this time of year?

With the current good weather we’ve been having recently, many parents are looking for advice on sun creams and also products to relieve the symptoms of hayfever.

Q Favourite product you can buy in Lloyds Pharmacy?

My favourite product at this time of year is Solero suncream.

Q Got any clever healthcare tips?

Linking in with holidays abroad – many people find taking thiamine tablets (vitamin B1) daily can help reduce mosquito bites when on holiday.