Will Quince, MP for Colchester and Health Minister, visited a Rowlands Pharmacy branch on Friday (20 January) in Nayland Road in his constituency.
The important role played by pharmacies in providing NHS care, support and advice to help the local community to live healthier lives whilst managing long-term health conditions were discussed among the pharmacy teams.
Mr Quince said: “Community pharmacy is playing an increasingly important role in ensuring people in Colchester have convenient walk-in access to the healthcare support and advice they need.
"Pharmacies are not simply places to collect prescriptions, they provide a wide range of services and are the third pillar of access to primary care alongside GPs and A&E. I would urge people to think pharmacy first if they have a minor ailment; need advice on taking their medication; want to stop smoking or want to check their blood pressure.”
Mr Quince concluded: “The pharmacy team at Naylands Road are doing a fantastic job and I admire their dedication. At a national level, the government is looking at how the role of pharmacy could be extended in the years ahead.”
Laura French, regional manager at Rowlands Pharmacy, commented: “We take great pride in supporting our local community with its healthcare needs. People come to us for flu vaccinations; weight management; stop smoking service; blood pressure checks; new medication service and CPCS.”
Laura French concluded: “With the flu season underway we are strongly encouraging local people to get their jab to protect themselves, their family and their community. People can book an appointment at www.rowlandspharmacy.co.uk and they can also book appointments for other services we offer such the pneumococcal vaccine, travel health, weight management among others.”
Cat Smith, Labour MP for Lancaster and Wyre