People across the county are being reminded of the many services offered by their local pharmacist over the Christmas and new year period.
This includes answering questions on health, giving advice on medicines and their side effects and reviewing patients who take more than one medicine. Pharmacists also offer a New Medicine Service, through which people can get extra help and advice when they are prescribed something new.

Ian Small, of the prescribing and medicines management team at NHS Norfolk and Waveney, said: “Your pharmacist is a highly skilled professional who has undergone very intensive training. They are a great source of friendly help and advice.

“Pharmacists don’t just dispense prescriptions – they can answer many questions on your health, such as disease prevention and nutrition, what your medicine is for, how you should use it and its side-effects. Many pharmacists now offer NHS funded support programmes for giving up smoking and can provide information on sexual health and contraception.

“Your pharmacist is the person to ask if you have a minor injury or illness. Many pharmacies are open seven days a week and are often a more convenient alternative to making an appointment with your GP.”

Lauren Dyble, of the Norfolk Local Pharmaceutical Committee, said: “Your local pharmacist should be the first port of call if you are feeling under the weather or have minor ailments over the holiday season. Your pharmacy team can provide you with effective medicines and prompt healthcare advice face-to-face without an appointment.”

There are 174 community pharmacies across NHS Norfolk and Waveney’s area.

Pharmacy opening times can be found on the NHS Choices website www.nhs.uk, or you can call NHS Direct for details of pharmacy services available in your area on 0845 46 47.

To find out more about services offered by your community pharmacist, visit: www.askyourpharmacist.co.uk