How easy do people in Swindon find it to order prescriptions?

This report is by Healthwatch Swindon. It is part of their My Voice Matters series in which volunteers or other featured writers contribute reports. In this report a young volunteer has written the report.

Through detailed research and questionnaires conducted in Swindon, Healthwatch looked at how efficient various prescription ordering services are to the public. Incorporating a wide range of challenges and barriers that concern the public, they also looked at possibilities to resolve them. The number of respondents is not listed.

•  A common problem reported-was having long waiting lists (on call), this was mainly criticised by those using the POD service.
• Some people complained that the main problem was with pharmacies not having medication in stock rather than accessing services.
• Few reported having problems receiving the right prescriptions which affected their daily life.
• Some (especially the elderly) find it hard to operate services online, to order their prescriptions.
• Many suggest its easier for them to consult the GP for their prescription as it allows any mistakes to be picked up at an early stage.
• People that have complicated heath issues and rely on medication find it challenging when services online get the prescriptions wrong or don’t have any on hand

There are recommendations in this report.

• There should be better alternatives but in place within individual services to make sure people are able to access services efficiently.

There are follow up actions in this report.

• To share the report widely.
• To speak to pharmacists and visit pharmacies to understand more.