Avoid stockpiling medicines during lockdown, says pharmacist body

by Q Radio News

Community pharmacists are urging the public not to stockpile medicines as Northern Ireland prepares to enter lockdown on Friday.

The body which represents pharmacists here says expanded services and measures have been put in place to deal with the expected increase in patients.

It's also reminding the public to co-operate and be patient with local community pharmacy teams as they are working at maximum capacity to deal with the increase in numbers.

Extra provision have also been put in place to give the flu vaccine to health and social care staff.

Community Pharmacists NI says it's now more important than ever that the public works together to get through the crisis.

Community Pharmacy NI Chief Executive Gerard Greene

Its chief executive, Gerard Greene said: “Once again, as the virus takes grip, community pharmacies remain open and ready to deal with COVID-19 and work to ensure all our patients are supported with the correct medicines and assured advice they need.

“As with the first wave, we are reaching out to the public, asking them to please be patient and mindful. Our community pharmacy teams are working around the clock to ensure the safe supply of medicines and sound assistance is given to all. Pharmacies have the necessary PPE and measures in place to ensure we can stay open and serve our communities.

“Having come through the first wave the health service has a better understanding of what to expect and pharmacy teams are equipped with the knowledge and know-how to deal with the increasing demand.

"New initiatives such as the Emergency Supply service, ensures that patients can access an urgent supply of their regular prescription medicine allowing members of our communities to access the healthcare they need at a convenient location and freeing up GP surgeries and Emergency Departments.

“The recent return of the Pharmacy First Winter Ailments service offers patients the opportunity to access a consultation with a highly trained healthcare professional for advice and treatment for common winter conditions. This will relieve some of the winter pressures facing our health colleagues in other settings, allowing them to focus on other aspects associated with COVID and other conditions."