Pharmacy service office

In addition to the services already provided, such as the sale of medicines, home support, or administration of first aid and vaccines, the individualized preparation of medicines, rapid tests to screen for infections caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis C or B virus, nutrition or podiatry consultations, are some of the new specialized services that users can now find at their disposal in a large number of Portuguese pharmacies.

The last 10 years have been disruptive in the sense of identity of Portuguese pharmacies, there have been several reviews and their currentlegal regimealready provides that other health services and the promotion of well-being can be provided to its users, as listed above.

Are these services being offered in the best way possible?

Strengthen trust and confidentiality

Often, the patient needs privacy to talk about certain issues and, as is understandable, due to the structure of smaller pharmacies or less isolated counters, they do not feel comfortable sharing their personal questions/problems, due to the lack of privacy.

Diversify your offer

It is essential that you define exactly which services you will provide and adapt your space for this purpose. See some examples of spaces here

Good Practices

According to theofficial document made available by the Order of Pharmacists, good practices for a personalized service office are defined as:

• “users have the right to communicate confidentially with the pharmacist, so pharmacy facilities must take this into account”;
• “in the medication dispensing area, a conversation must be able to take place in private, without interruptions and without the possibility of being overheard by third parties”;
• “this space must be physically separated from the waiting area”;
• “Different services, such as pharmaceutical consultations, must be carried out in a ventilated room, free from noise or disturbances that could affect communication between the pharmacist and the patient”.

According to the SNS (National Health Service), pharmacies can also promote campaigns and programs on health literacy, disease prevention and promotion of healthy lifestyles, as, in fact, we have all seen on various media, with special and quick access, on social networks.

Do not forget, however, that all services must be provided under legal and regulatory conditions, by legally qualified professionals and which must be communicated to Infarmed, through the electronic means available on its website.

Based on these guidelines, ask for help from a company specialized in turnkey projects for healthcare spaces, such as MEDD, that knows all the specificities of the pharmaceutical sector and, together, we will create the best conditions for differentiated, personalized and reliable service in your pharmacy.

This entire evolution of awareness of providing other services in pharmacies has yielded good results and is also the result of a commitment made between the government and the ANF – National Association of Pharmacies.

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