‘More people should make use of service’
AN MP visited a pharmacy to meet staff and patients and hear how this service helps to keep people well.
Mary Robinson went to Peak Pharmacy in Heald Green during an NHS campaign to encourage people to use pharmacies as the first port of call for minor illnesses such as colds, coughs and teething.
Mary also discussed how the pharmacy works with local GP practices, hospitals and care homes to support patients, help people stay well and relieve pressure on other NHS services.
Mary said: “It was great to hear about how more and more people are seeing the value of community pharmacies in helping them stay well and treating their conditions.
“I hope that more people pop down to their local pharmacy as a first port of call and make use of this important service.”
Peter Marks, pharmacist at Peak Pharmacy, said: “It was a privilege to welcome Mary to Peak Pharmacy and to show her the vast range of care that community pharmacies like ours provide, including advice and treatment for minor ailments, medication reviews and sexual health.
“We are at the heart of the local community and pro- vide vital services and support for people with longterm illnesses.”
Adam Irvine, chief executive of Greater Manchester Local Pharmaceutical Committee (GMLPC), the statutory organisation that represents local pharmacies, added: “Community pharmacies are the most accessible form of healthcare, offering personalised medicines support, information and advice and a range of services to help people stay well.
“Pharmacists are highly qualified experts who complete five years of training before we can practise, so we are your first port of call for minor illnesses and general health advice.”