When you cannot get an appointment with your GP, did you know that there are things you can see your pharmacist for? The average pharmacist knows much more than just dispensing medicines.

Below are 6 services you could see your pharmacist for.

1. NHS Minor Ailment Scheme – Some pharmacies offer a minor ailments service. This means a pharmacist will be able to offer advice and may be able to offer you medicines for a minor illness. This could save a visit to your GP. Illnesses supported within the scheme include, back-ache, sprains and strains, colds, conjunctivitis, constipation, coughs, diarrhoea, earache, haemorrhoids, hay-fever and many more.
2. Helping you quit smoking – Pharmacists are on hand to help you stop smoking. They can offer you with help and advice and can provide smoking cessation products for you.
3. Travel health advice – Whether you’re going on holiday to a UK hideaway, or travelling to a more exotic location, pharmacists can provide you with tips and advice. This will help you and your family stay well whilst travelling.  Some pharmacies can also provide the appropriate travel vaccinations required via their travel services.
4. Flu vaccinations – Most pharmacies now offer flu vaccinations during the winter months. This meaning that you can get a flu vaccine at a time that suits you.
5. Health checks – Some pharmacies also offer health checks to look at your blood pressure and cholesterol. Assessments are available to see if you are at risk of developing diabetes and heart disease.
6. Pain management service – Living with pain can take its toll. Your pharmacist can help you find ways to alleviate your pain. In turn this will reduce the impact it has on everyday life. A pharmacist can help you choose pain relief to suit your needs and condition.

The above list is not exhaustive. Your local pharmacy may be able to help you with lots of other health-related matters. It is definitely worth asking about the services offered.

If your pharmacist isn’t able to assist you and you are finding it difficult to get a GP appointment, you may be able to obtain a video or telephone appointment with a GP to discuss your health concerns via your private medical insurance policy. If you hold a private medical insurance policy and would like to see if such a service is available under your plan, please contact us on 01245 929129 or email enquires@smphealthcare.com.