Well Pharmacy launches mobile health clinics to combat health inequalities

Well Pharmacy, the UK’s largest independent pharmacy chain, launched two mobile health clinics today (October 25) to make healthcare services more accessible and reduce inequalities.

The specially equipped clinic is designed with two consultation rooms and a bespoke awning.

Two pharmacists will be available in each van, aiming to protect up to 200 flu virus patients every day and offer more services, such as blood pressure checks.

Having initial partnership with Co-op, EDF and Bestway Wholesale amongst others, Well’s mobile health clinics will visit 35 locations across England from Prudhoe in Northumberland to Trago Mills in Newton over the next eight weeks.

Besides, local communities will be invited to book their flu jab appointment online in advance or walk-in on the day.

Commenting on the launch of the new service, Ifti Khan, pharmacy superintendent at Well Pharmacy said: “Across the UK there are deep-running health inequalities when it comes to accessing healthcare, driving poor health outcomes for some in society.

“Our aim is to support both existing and new communities, drive health prevention and better outcomes for more people across the UK. This is especially important for those at higher risk of ill-health who have little contact with the wider healthcare system.”

He added that demand for the flu vaccination service has been very high and the new launch will enable reaching out to new communities “to offer this important and valuable service.”

Quoting experts’ prediction, Gill Stone, NHS Standards and Services lead, said the UK is anticipated to witness a difficult flu season due to a surge of respiratory viruses as people had limited exposure last year following lockdown restrictions.

With mobile health clinics “we hope to protect thousands more people in the community," Stone added.