Pharmacists spend at least six years in college learning about medicine and health. Take advantage of 10 services your pharmacy offers as you get healthier.
1. Health Screenings
Many pharmacies offer a variety of health screenings, including:
- Anemia
- Blood pressure
- Cholesterol
- Glucose
- Prostate
- Skin cancer
- Thyroid
After you get the results, visit your primary care physician for an official diagnosis and treatment plan.
2. Sexual Health
Sexual health is important now and into the future. Your pharmacist can offer advice about safe sex, recommend contraceptives, provide pregnancy tests, give emergency contraception and discuss vaccines that may be appropriate.
3. New Medicine Service
A new medication for asthma, high blood pressure or another chronic condition can be confusing. The New Medicine Service helps ensure you’re taking the medicine properly, understand what it does and know common side effects.
4. Medication Therapy Management (MTM) Services
If you take more than five medications per day, sign up for Medication Therapy Management. During a 30–60 minute session, your pharmacist will review your medications to confirm each one is necessary, taken correctly and affordable.
Ask your health insurance company if they will cover an MTM session.
5. Diabetes Classes
Diabetes is a common, chronic condition. At your pharmacy you can receive diabetes management education, medication counseling, blood‑glucose meter training and glucose testing.
6. Vaccinations
You may be familiar with the flu shot at your pharmacy. You can also receive other vaccinations such as:
- Gardasil (HPV vaccine)
- Hepatitis A and B
- Meningitis
- Pneumonia
- Tetanus
- Zostavax (Shingles vaccine)
Your primary care physician may need to prescribe some vaccines, and your pharmacist can help determine which vaccines are right for you.
7. Unwanted Medicine Disposal
Instead of tossing unwanted or expired medication in the trash or toilet, give it to your pharmacist. They will safely dispose of it.
8. Minor Ailments Advice
When you’re suffering from a cold, rash or earache, visit your pharmacist for medication recommendations and self-care tips to help you feel better and recover more quickly.
9. Health Lifestyle Advice
For ongoing health issues see your primary care physician, but your pharmacy team can offer healthy eating tips, weight-loss advice, smoking cessation tools and information about managing chronic conditions.
10. NHS Health Check
Only your doctor can diagnose diabetes, dementia or another chronic condition. However, your pharmacist can screen you for certain conditions if you are in the eligible age range for local screening programs.
Your local pharmacy offers these 10 beneficial services. Use them as you get healthier.
Check your Pharmacy Savings Program or Pharmacy Health Discount Benefits to learn about discounts and savings available through participating pharmacies.
If you want help comparing options, talk to an agent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do pharmacies charge for screening tests?
Some screenings are free while others may have a fee; check with your local pharmacy for costs and whether insurance covers the test.
Can a pharmacist give me a vaccine without a doctor’s prescription?
Many vaccines can be administered by a pharmacist, but some require a doctor’s prescription depending on local regulations and the specific vaccine.
What should I bring to a New Medicine Service appointment?
Bring your prescriptions, a list of all medications and supplements you take, and any questions about side effects or how to take the medicine.
How do I dispose of controlled medications?
Your pharmacist can advise on safe disposal options and may accept them for secure disposal at the pharmacy.