Only one-in-five people usually seek the advice of a pharmacist if they feel unwell during winter

Many pharmacies can also offer a range of NHS services

Pharmacists across Enfield are reminding local people of the “accessible and valuable services” that local pharmacies provide.

This week is ‘Ask Your Pharmacist Week’ and a recent survey of North London residents revealed that only one in five people (21%) usually seek the advice of a pharmacist if they feel unwell during winter.

Local clinicians are now highlighting, particularly to parents of young children, that they can seek expert advice from their local pharmacy, particularly for coughs, colds and other winter viruses.

Rachael Clark, assistant director of medicines’ optimisation at North Central London Integrated Care Board, which co-ordinates primary care across five London boroughs, said: “Community pharmacy and pharmacists are an important and valuable source of expert advice, but even more people could be using their services.

“As the survey results highlight, there’s a lot of people who could potentially benefit more than they are already.”

She adds: “We are proud to have some fantastic pharmacists across Enfield who are highly skilled and trained medical professionals, able to advise, prescribe, and signpost you to the right care.”

Pharmacist Bhupesh Patel, from Green Lanes Pharmacy in Winchmore Hill, said that parents of young children could particularly benefit more from local pharmacy.

She said: “We know, as parents ourselves, how worrying it can be when your child gets ill, especially during winter. Expert advice is only around the corner at your local pharmacy.

“As pharmacists, we train for five years, learning about the human body and the use of medicines to treat disease and diagnose common illnesses.

“We are experts on minor health concerns such as coughs, colds, sore throats, ear infections, aches and pains and can provide advice on over-the-counter medicines and how to manage your symptoms.

“We can also spot the signs of serious illness and will refer you to a doctor or other suitable health care professional if necessary.”

Pharmacies are also often open on evenings, weekends and bank holidays, making it often quicker and more convenient than seeing a GP.

Bhupesh top tips on getting ready for winter including getting vaccinated against flu, stocking up on basic medicines at home, and checking whether you are eligible for selected free medicines if you are on a low income.

Pharmacies can also supply medicines for seven minor health conditions, if appropriate, without the need for a GP appointment or prescription. These conditions include earache for children, impetigo (a bacterial skin infection), infected insect bites, shingles, sinusitis, sore throat and urinary tract infections for women aged under 64.

For tailored advice on how to stay well this winter:
Visit londonwinterwellness.nhs.uk

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