‘Patients are often unaware of the services we provide’

Sanjeev Panesar, 36, from Pan Pharmacy in Sheldon, Birmingham, is keen to spread the word

“A lot of health issues are seasonal, so we might see coughs and colds through the winter, and hayfeverrelated issues in the spring or summer. Otherwise, the things we deal with could be anything from sportsrelated injuries to diarrhoea, dental problems, earache and issues with eyesight. It’s so varied, and could relate to anything from head to toe.

“Patients are often unaware of the services you can get from a pharmacy. That’s why we are keen to educate people about the whole healthcare system. Pharmacists have regular contact with patients and, in a way, we are a jack of all trades. We deal with so many issues that we know when we need to direct someone to, say, a doctor or an optician, or when we can deal with it ourselves.

“Patients often go to their GP initially, but in many cases their issue could be dealt with by a pharmacist. There’s no need to make an appointment.

“It’s quick, easy and accessible and we will be

We deal with so many issues that we know when to direct someone to, say, a doctor or dentist, or when we can deal with it ourselves

able to advice very quickly whether we can help you. If we can’t, we will point you in the direction of the right person. "We also do flu jabs, and some pharmacies can give Covid boosters too. At my pharmacy we also offer a range of private services.”