Stay Healthy This Christmas & New Year – Pharmacies Are Here For You
As Tasmanians prepare to celebrate Christmas and New Year,a helpful reminder has been issued about accessing vital health services during the festive season.Pharmacies across the state will be open to provide treatment for a range of common ailments and offer valuable health advice. “Pharmacists can treat a variety of conditions, including coughs, colds, allergies, and minor wounds,” says Duncan McKenzie, Pharmacist at the Department of Health. “They can also offer general health advice.” Helen Kruup from the Tasmanian Branch of the Pharmaceutical Society adds that pharmacies are now offering expanded clinical services. “Participating pharmacies can assess and manage some patients with urinary tract infections (UTIs),” Kruup explains, “and can also provide refills of many medications, including the oral contraceptive pill, for eligible Tasmanians. This reduces the need to visit a GP during the holiday period.” Kruup also emphasizes the importance of staying up-to-date on vaccinations. “As we gather with friends and family, remember to check your vaccination status for COVID, pertussis, and RSV. Contact your local pharmacy to schedule an appointment.” Richard Lennon from the Tasmanian Branch of the Pharmacy Guild reminds Tasmanians to “think pharmacy frist” during the christmas holidays.”With over 150 community pharmacies located across the state, we offer a range of services and products to help you enjoy your break.” Lennon suggests stocking up on essential first aid supplies before embarking on camping trips or outdoor activities. “Sunscreen, insect repellent, bandages, gauze, electrolytes, and antiseptic products are all crucial for treating sunburns, minor injuries, and reducing infection risk,” he advises. ”If you’re taking regular medication,” Lennon adds, “drop in to your local pharmacy before Christmas to ensure you have enough supplies.” To find the operating hours of pharmacies near you over the holiday period, visit www.findapharmacy.com.au. More details on treatment options can be found at: Know your treatment options – Right Care Right Place | Tasmanian Department of Health Remember, in case of an emergency, always call Triple Zero (000) or visit your nearest Emergency Department.## Archyde Presents: Staying Healthy Through teh Holidays
**Today on Archyde, we’re joined by Alex Reed, a pharmacist at [Pharmacy Name] in Tasmania. Welcome to the show!**
**Alex Reed:** Thanks for having me.
**We’re heading into the holiday season, a time often filled with joy, family, and sadly, sometimes a few sniffles and tummy aches. You play a crucial role in keeping Tasmanians healthy throughout the year. What advice do you have for people to stay well during the Christmas and New Year festivities?**
**Alex Reed:**
That’s right, holidays can be tough on our bodies.As people are catching up with loved ones,often travelling and perhaps indulging a bit more than usual,it’s easy to catch a bug or experience some digestive issues. Luckily, pharmacies are hear to help!
First and foremost, remember to keep up with your medications.Don’t skip doses or leave refills until the last minute, especially over the holiday period when some services may have reduced hours.
Secondly, don’t hesitate to visit your local pharmacy if you’re feeling under the weather. We can treat a variety of common ailments like coughs, colds, mild fevers, headaches, and indigestion.We can offer advice on managing symptoms, recommend over-the-counter remedies, and even administer some vaccinations, if needed. [Optional: Tailor this section based on guest’s specific expertise and pharmacy offerings]
**Many people might not realize the full range of services pharmacies offer. could you elaborate on some of those beyond dispensing medications?**
**Alex Reed:**
You’re right, many people only think of us for prescriptions, but we offer much more! We provide health checks like blood pressure and cholesterol monitoring, personalized medication advice, and facts on managing chronic conditions. We can also offer guidance on healthy living, nutrition, and preventative care.
Think of us as your first point of contact for all things health-related. We’re conveniently located and accessible without needing an appointment.
**That’s incredibly helpful to know. Any final tips for our viewers as they navigate the Christmas celebrations?**
**Alex Reed:**
Enjoy the holidays! Remember to prioritize your health alongside all the festivities.Wash your hands frequently, get enough sleep, eat nourishing meals, and stay hydrated. And remember, your local pharmacy is here to support you if you need us.
**Thank you so much for sharing your expertise with us, Alex Reed. We appreciate your time and dedication to keeping Tasmanians healthy, especially during the holiday season.**
**Alex Reed:** You’re welcome. Happy holidays everyone!
## Archyde Presents: Staying Healthy Through the Holidays
**Host:** Welcome to Archyde! Today, we’re talking about staying healthy during the holidays, a time frequently enough filled with flavorful food, family gatherings, adn maybe a bit too much indulgence. To help us navigate this season while keeping our well-being in mind, we’re joined by Alex Reed, a pharmacist with [Alex Reed’s Affiliation]. Welcome to the show!
**Alex Reed:** Thanks for having me!
**Host:** Now, with pharmacies playing an increasingly crucial role in accessible healthcare, what can Tasmanians expect in terms of service availability over the Christmas and New Year period?
**Alex Reed:** Tasmanians can be reassured that pharmacies will be open throughout the holiday season, ready to assist with various health needs. While some pharmacies may have adjusted hours, many will maintain regular hours to ensure access to essential medications, advice, and treatment for minor ailments.
**Host:** That’s great news! It’s reassuring to know we have reliable healthcare options readily available.
You mentioned treatment for minor ailments. Could you elaborate on what types of conditions pharmacies can handle?
**Alex Reed:** Absolutely! Pharmacists are qualified to treat a range of common issues like coughs, colds, allergies, minor skin irritations, and minor cuts or burns. We can also provide advice on managing symptoms and recommend over-the-counter medications to alleviate discomfort.
**Host:** And what about managing chronic conditions during the holidays?
**Alex Reed:** Staying on top of medications is crucial, especially during busy periods. We encourage anyone taking regular medication to check their supplies before the holidays and visit their pharmacy if they need refills.
**Host:** That’s a great reminder. In addition to these services, I understand pharmacies are expanding their clinical offerings. Can you tell us more about that?
**Alex Reed:** That’s right! Many pharmacies now offer expanded services,including assessments and management of uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs). Additionally, they can provide refills for certain medications, such as the oral contraceptive pill, for eligible Tasmanians. This reduces the need for GP appointments and makes accessing healthcare even more convenient.
**Host:** That’s fantastic! Pharmacies are truly becoming a one-stop shop for many health needs.
Could you also remind our listeners about the importance of vaccinations during this time of year?
**Alex Reed:** Definitely! As we gather with family and friends during the holidays, it’s vital to ensure our vaccinations are up to date. This includes flu shots, COVID-19 boosters, and vaccinations for pertussis and RSV, especially if you have young children. Contact your local pharmacy to schedule an appointment.
**Host:** Excellent advice! Thank you so much, [Alex Reed name] for providing us with such valuable information. It’s truly critically important to know our options when it comes to staying healthy during the holidays.
**Alex Reed:** My pleasure. Happy and healthy holidays to all!
**Host:** To our listeners, remember to “Think pharmacy first” and visit www.findapharmacy.com.au for pharmacy locations and opening hours.For more information on available treatment options, visit the Tasmanian department of Health website: Know your treatment options – Right Care Right Place.
remember, in case of an emergency, always call Triple Zero (000) or visit your nearest Emergency department.
Thanks for joining us on archyde!
