A Lanarkshire community pharmacist is encouraging people across the area to make their local pharmacy their first stop for advice and treatment this winter.
Pharmacies can give fast, expert help for many common winter illnesses — such as coughs, colds, sore ears and throats, tummy bugs and skin conditions — without an appointment through NHS Pharmacy First Scotland. Pharmacists can offer immediate advice and provide treatment where appropriate.
They can also supply medicines, including antibiotics for conditions such as urinary tract infections in women, shingles and impetigo, and offer support with services like contraception. If further care is needed, pharmacists can direct people to the most appropriate service.
With winter bringing increased pressure across the health system, pharmacists play a key role in helping people access the right care quickly and close to home.
Sonia Rashid, Community Pharmacist in Bellshill, said: “Winter can be challenging for many families, and it’s not always clear where to seek help when symptoms start. Your local pharmacy is an excellent first point of contact. We can offer advice straight away, treat many common conditions, and guide you if further care is needed. For a lot of winter illnesses, there’s no need to book an appointment — we’re accessible, knowledgeable and here to help.
“Pharmacies are open throughout the week, with many offering evening and weekend hours, making it easier for people to get support at a time that suits them. And if someone does require additional care, community pharmacists can direct them to the most appropriate service — whether that’s their GP practice team, Out of Hours care, or specialist services.”
NHS Lanarkshire is encouraging residents to familiarise themselves with the support available locally and to consider community pharmacy as their first option for non-urgent winter conditions.
For more information on local services this winter, visit the Winter Health Hub:
https://www.nhslanarkshire.scot.nhs.uk/your-health/winter-health/
