How is your Pharmacy working for you?
- Healthwatch Somerset
- 10 hours ago
- 1 min read
Our report highlights opportunities to improve awareness of pharmacy services, provide clearer information about Pharmacy First, strengthen privacy for consultations and improve communication when prescriptions are delayed.
Local pharmacies are playing a vital role in helping people access healthcare across Somerset. Our latest report found that residents value the advice, support and convenience provided by pharmacy teams, with many describing pharmacists as approachable, knowledgeable, and trusted healthcare professionals.
However, we also found that awareness of Pharmacy First remains low, despite many people already benefiting from pharmacy services for common health conditions.
Key findings:
44% of people who used Pharmacy First for one of the seven eligible conditions said they had a very positive experience.
65% of respondents had not heard of the term Pharmacy First.
95% of respondents used a community pharmacy.
76% had asked a pharmacist for advice about a medical issue or health concern.
45% said they felt uncomfortable discussing health concerns in front of other people.
People told us about prescription delays, medicine shortages and difficulties accessing pharmacies, particularly in rural areas.
Alongside positive feedback, people highlighted opportunities to improve awareness of pharmacy services, strengthen privacy for consultations, provide clearer information about Pharmacy First eligibility, and improve communication when prescriptions are delayed.
Our recommendations aim to help ensure that everyone can make the best use of the support available from their local pharmacy.
Read our report
If you need this report in a different format, please email info@healthwatchsomerset.co.uk or call 0800 999 1286
