Minor Ailments

The entire dynamic of pharmacy shifted last month when the Department announced its pre-orchestrated attempts to reform the Minor Ailments Scheme. Contractors, backed by the Ulster Chemists’ Association (UCA) and the Pharmaceutical Contractors’ Committee (PCC), withdrew from the service en masse much to the Department’s pr...

Feeling The Pressure

With high blood pressure thought to affect as many as one in five people in Northern Ireland, thousands of people throughout the country could be suffering from the condition without realising it. Gordons Chemists have made blood pressure testing a priority for their health promotion strategy, introducing free testing events at ...

News in Brief

Minister Backs Awards

Health Minister Michael McGimpsey has pledged his support for 2008’s Integrated Health Award, an accolade run by the Foundation for Integrated Health, championing an integrated approach to health. “I welcome my Department’s continuing support and sponsorship of the Northern Ireland category of the Integrated Health Award,” he commented. Closing date for applications is 29 August.

Don’t Start, Kids

NICE has issued guidance for healthcare professionals focusing on the mass-media and point of sale measures to prevent uptake of smoking by children and young people under 18. Particularly recommended for pharmacists who can appropriately employ mass-media intervention, the guidance is designed to highlight the dangers of smoking and related illnesses.

GSK Opt For DTP

From 1 November 2008, GSK will supply prescription medicines via AAH Pharmaceuticals and Unichem. The NPA have vowed to “drill into the specifics” of the arrangements according to NPA chief executive John Turk.

‘Grave Concern’ for MAS

The NPA Board has spoken out against the DHSSPS’ plans to cap MAS. NPA chairman Paul Bennett said; “The PCC and UCA have called upon the NPA to support the resolution already carried by their members. The unanimous response of this Board is to recommend that all NPA members withdraw from the scheme in Northern Ireland with immediate effect.”

Alzheimer’s Breakthrough

A recent study has revealed that methylthionium chloride (Rember) can be key in reducing brain deterioration in Alzheimer’s patients. Trials have indicated an 81 per cent difference in the rate of mental decline compared to those without treatment.

Roberta to the Rescue

Written by Laure James - Editor Pharmacy in Focus
Monday, 04 August 2008 11:36
Airports are not known for their serenity and spending hours in departure lounges does not necessarily equate to reclining in a haven of calm. Passengers in Dublin Airport however were given an opportunity of respite from the check-in queues and baggage reclaim thanks to Perrans Distribution, ably assisted by Rescue Remedy girl Roberta Rawat and her Rescue Team. A promotional campaign, involving the distribution of over 10,000 Rescue Kits, was also supported by the airport’s pharmacy team. Airport pharmacy manager Niamh Keating commented; “The summer months are the busiest time of the year with around 90,000 people going through the airport each day. Air travel has never been more stressful and anything to help manage stress flies off the shelves – especially Rescue. “There is the familiar spray and drops but for the summer travel kit we also suggested Rescue Pastilles which contain the five Bach Original Flower Essences in Rescue Remedy. The naturally flavoured elderflower and orange pastilles come in a compact tin ideal for travel. They are alcohol and sugar-free and safe for all the family including children.” Keeping skin hydrated, particularly on long haul journeys, is also an important travel tip. Rescue Cream, an intensive moisturiser designed to hydrate, restores dry skin it to its natural condition. It is lanolin, paraben and perfume free.” For more information visit www.rescueremedy.ie.