Chennai: Pharmacies are under enormous pressure to help their communities stay healthy during the coronavirus pandemic. They really are the unsung heroes of healthcare, continuing to provide treatment and advice, says clinical director, Patient.info, Dr Sarah Jarvis.
According to Sarah, “Itās important to note that, in order to keep providing a safe service, pharmacies have to introduce new measures to protect patients and staff from Covid-19.”
Sarah says, “Do not visit a pharmacy if youāre experiencing symptoms of coronavirus. Do not over-order your prescriptions or stockpile medications. Be patient with pharmacists.”
The doctor adds, “Do not phone the pharmacy unless absolutely necessary. Follow the social distancing measures put in place by the pharmacy ā donāt come within two metres of another person.”
“If weāre all sensible, we can continue to use this essential service and get all of the medications we need, safely, when we need them”, says Sarah.
“Pharmacies should take special measures to protect staff and patients during the coronavirus outbreak. They should screen customers to avoid contaminating staff, tape on the floor to help patients maintain social distancing,Ā encouraging patients to pay with contactless debit cards rather than cash”.
“Limits on the number of patients allowed inside the pharmacy at one time and asking patients to wait outside for some prescriptions should be taken up”.