Pharmacy doing its bit through the virus uncertainty
The team at a Bridge of Allan pharmacy admit it has been a manic few weeks as they respond to the coronavirus crisis.
Strathallan Pharmacy, based in the town’s Henderson Street, is just one of the local pharmacies facing a massive spike in demand and a change in working practices as they attempt to keep people supplied with vital medication while keeping their staff safe.
Dispenser Gaynor Hunter, who has worked in the shop for more than 20 years, says coping with the virus has meant more stress and longer hours for the small band of dedicated staff.
But she is full of praise for the understanding and good wishes from the community in dealing with the changes.
Gaynor told the Observer:“The volume of prescriptions has been a bit crazy and the last week has been busier than our busiest December.
“We’ve had a lot more deliveries coming in and we’ve been open over Easter to deal with emergency prescriptions where we would normally be closed over the weekend.
“It’s been super busy and we’ve only got the same amount of staff to cope with the work, so the staff have been in here from 7am to 7pm to try and get through everything.
“Everybody obviously wants deliveries these days due to isolation, so I’ve been dropping some off on my way home if it’s on my side of the village and Bridge of Allan Cares is pitching in as well to help out.
“The community effort has been fantastic, from drawing pictures and baking cakes for us to just being really patient with us and the door policy we’ve had to bring in to make sure that the staff and customers themselves are kept safe.”
The uncertainty from the virus has coinicided with the pharmacy’s own internal change, with owner Roger Gardner retiring from the business after 15 years.
Gaynor added:“The pharmacy has been in Roger’s family for about 70 years and he finished at the end of
March. He’s really turned things around and it was a shame that he didn’t end up getting a better send-off because we were so busy and things have been so crazy.
“I spoke to him not too long ago and think he’s a bit bored to tears by being at home - there’s only so many times you can wash and polish the car.”