What is a Medicines Check-up?
The way you take prescribed medicines can make a big difference to how effective they are. It’s easy to make mistakes without even realising it – studies show that around half of all prescribed medicines aren’t taken properly. Our free Medicines Check-up is your chance to have a private, face-to-face conversation with a pharmacist to better understand how and when to take your medicines, what they are doing for you and how to control any side effects.
It’s a completely free service which will leave you feeling confident that you’re getting the best from the medicines that you have been prescribed.
Do I need a Check-up?
Our Medicines Check-up is a good idea for anyone taking prescribed medicines on a long term basis, but is especially important if:
- You don’t know what your medicines do for you
- Your symptoms aren’t under control
- You find it hard to remember when to take your medicines
- You’re not sure how and when to take your medicines
- You think you are experiencing side effects
- You find it difficult to take or swallow your medicines
Even if you feel that these signs don’t apply to you, our pharmacist may still be able to spot issues of which you’re not aware. For example you may be taking your medicines regularly but not at the correct time of day.
What will happen at the check-up?
We’ll invite you for an appointment at the pharmacy where you usually collect your prescription. Once there, you’ll sit down with our pharmacist in a private consultation area for a chat which will probably take around fifteen minutes. This is your chance to ask any questions you may have about your medicines. Our pharmacist will also ask you questions, so together you can find out how to deal with any problems you may be experiencing, so you can get the very best from your medicines. You’ll be given a copy of the review, including an action plan and this will also be sent to your doctor.
How can I arrange a check-up?
You need to have 3 months worth of prescriptions dispensed by the pharmacist before you can book a check-up with them. If you aren’t already using your nearest participating pharmacy, why not sign up there for our free In-Pharmacy Express Repeat Prescription service?
Check our store locator to find your nearest participating Lloydspharmacy pharmacy. Once the pharmacy has dispensed your medicines for 3 months, simply ask them to book you an appointment for a free Medicines Check-Up.
Please note, this is an NHS service only available in England, Wales and the Isle of Man.