At your local pharmacy

5 THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW YOU COULD DO AT YOUR LOCAL PHARMACY

Visiting the pharmacy to pick up medications or everyday hygiene items is a pretty common practice. But despite the amount of time we’ve all spent browsing the pharmacy aisles while we wait for a prescription, it’s likely many of us are unaware of some of the handy services offered there. So here’s a little run down…

Get an absence from work certificate

Did you know you can easily obtain an absence from work certificate at your local pharmacy? Many people are pleasantly surprised by this convenient hack – a much simpler process to the alternative of long wait times in a doctor’s office. An absence from work certificate covers you if you need to take a day off due to a minor ailment – like a headache or mild cold – and need to provide your employer with evidence. It’s worth noting that obtaining this type of certificate incurs a fee, and it can’t be used for severe injuries or illnesses. In certain situations, a medical certificate from your GP may be your best bet but it’s handy to know your options! Save money on medications

It’s easy to be overwhelmed by the various brands of medication on offer at your local pharmacy. As a result, you might not be aware that some of the more well-known brands are significantly more expensive than their generic alternatives (while containing the exact same active ingredients). If you’re someone who is regularly purchasing medicine, opting for the generic option is a great idea – and you’ll likely save a small fortune in the long run! If you’re unsure of the appropriate generic brand, just ask your pharmacist and they’ll be happy to point you in the right direction. Popular brands like APOHEALTH, Chemists’ Own or Blooms The Chemist have a wide range of quality generic products at a much lower price, and are available at most community pharmacies. Dispose of blister packs and expired medications safely

Did you know that approximately 500 tonnes of medicines end up in Australian landfill and waterways from incorrect and unsafe disposal each year? That’s a lot of unnecessary and potentially toxic waste. Luckily, many pharmacies offer a free service where you can return empty blister packs and any unused, expired or unwanted medication. This makes for a much safer, environmentally conscious disposal. Chat to your local pharmacist today to find out if this is a service they offer.

Book a health test or screening

There are a number of important medical tests that you now no longer need to visit the doctor for – a great option if you’re short on time. Participating pharmacies can conduct tests like blood glucose testing, anaemia testing, bone density testing or even bowel cancer screening. So, next time you’re looking to get a medical test on your lunch break, pick up the phone to your local pharmacy and find out if this is a service they can provide.

Get your stat dec signed

There’s nothing quite as frustrating as having to find someone to witness the signing of a stat dec any time you need to verify your age, renew your passport or make an insurance claim. What few people realise is that you can head down to your local pharmacy to have a pharmacist witness your signature instead. Provided your documents are legitimate and legible, it’s likely you’ll get your stat dec signed in record time!