It’s ‘Ask Your Pharmacist Week’ and health professionals in Sefton are reminding residents of the range of healthcare services and support available at your local pharmacy.

Your community pharmacist can help with:

• Advice and treatment for minor illnesses such as coughs, colds and earache
• Advice on staying well and preventing disease
• Support to maintain good sexual health
• Help to quit smoking
• Personalised support to get the most from your medicines

In addition to this, many pharmacies in Sefton now offer a range of new services including:

• Blood pressure monitoring for people aged 40 and over
• Flu vaccinations for over 50s and other eligible groups
• Support with newly prescribed medicines for a range of long term conditions

Susanne Lynch MBE, head of medicines management at NHS Cheshire and Merseyside in Sefton said: “Pharmacies have always been a great resource for residents, offering a range of NHS services and friendly, face to face support, close to home and with no need to book an appointment.

“In recent years community pharmacies have added to their services, with many now offering additional services such as blood pressure checks and support for people with a range of conditions, from asthma to epilepsy to Parkinson’s Disease. Speak to your local pharmacy about which services they offer to find out more.

“If you are one of our more vulnerable residents and you do not normally pay for your prescription, then Care at the Chemist is a great way for you to be seen by a health professional who can advise on treatment for a number of ailments and offer medication where appropriate, without needing to see a GP. Just ask your pharmacist about Care at the Chemist.

“With a busy winter for the NHS ahead, we would encourage people to think about their pharmacist first when you have a minor health concern. All pharmacies have private consultation rooms where you can discuss your health concerns and medication in confidence.

“Pharmacists are clinically trained and if your symptoms suggest anything more serious, your pharmacist will direct you to the most appropriate service.”

For NHS services, convenient access to medicines, support for healthy living and prompt clinical advice, Ask Your Pharmacist.

To find a pharmacy near you, search using your town, city or postcode on the NHS website: www.nhs.uk/service-search/pharmacy/find-a-pharmacy