Originally from our sister publication, .
Patients from coast to coast are tapping into the healthcare knowledge, expertise and services available at their local pharmacy, according to a Nielsen survey commissioned by the Canadian Association of Chain Drug Stores (CACDS).
In fact, 72% of almost 6,000 respondents indicated that they have talked to their pharmacist about health issues, beyond their prescribed medication.
It’s no longer enough for a pharmacy to be a place where medication and advice are dispensed—96% of respondents surveyed believe that it’s important for their pharmacist to play an increased role and work closely with their doctor to optimize care.
What Canadians are talking to pharmacists about
Of the 72% of survey respondents who said that they’ve talked to a pharmacist about one or more healthcare issues other than filling a prescription, the most common subject was the treatment of minor ailments (41%)—like mild burns or insect bites. Advice on vitamins and supplements (26%) and dealing with adverse medication reactions (24%) were also commonly discussed.
Regionally, in Atlantic Canada—where Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick have the nation’s lowest per capita ratio of family physicians—patients are the most likely to turn to their pharmacist for advice on minor ailments (47%). Quebec patients lead the way in seeking information on adverse medication reactions (33%).
When it comes to managing diabetes, Canadians say they are taking some advantage of their pharmacy as an authoritative, accessible and convenient source of care. However, given the known burden of diabetes on patients, their families, the healthcare system and the Canadian economy overall, it is surprising that only 9% of respondents reported talking to their pharmacist about managing the disease.
Considerations when choosing a pharmacy
What are the most important considerations for Canadians when choosing a pharmacy? Pointing once again to the expectation among consumers that pharmacy should play a more integral part in their healthcare, the most common consideration for choosing a pharmacy is ‘trust in the pharmacy staff’s knowledge and advice’ (48%). Location—being conveniently able to access quality care—was the second most common reason cited (42%).
The top five considerations for Canadians choosing a pharmacy are:
- Trust in the pharmacy staff’s knowledge/advice – 48%
- Location (convenience) – 42%
- Pharmacist accessibility – 32%
- Quick service (i.e. short wait time to fill prescriptions) – 30%
- Pharmacy services offered (i.e., medication counselling, blood pressure monitoring) – 17%