Enter and View: Whitehouse Pharmacy, Penkridge
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Healthwatch Staffordshire undertook an enter and view visit to Whitehouse Pharmacy on 12 and 14 May with a view to getting feedback on the Pharmacy First service. They spoke to 19 people.
Overall, Healthwatch concluded that Whitehouse Pharmacy is doing an excellent job supporting its local community and staff. The Superintendent shows a clear dedication to both the team and the community. However, frustrations arise regarding financial viability, some stock issues, and limited referrals from GPs to effectively utilise the Pharmacy First initiative.
The staff members feel positive about the services they provide, appreciating the team spirit and support from the manager. Time constraints, especially during busy periods when administering vaccinations, limit the staff's ability to complete operational tasks associated with the shop. Nevertheless, their determination, empathy, and compassion for patients are evident.
Feedback from patients was positive and focused on patient-centred care, with some staff going above and beyond.
The facility itself is clean, fully accessible for wheelchairs and pushchairs, and filled with leaflets, posters, and prompts to help educate the public. It is conveniently located in Penkridge town and has been a part of the community for many years.
The opening of the “Bank of Wellbeing” also deserves commendation, as it offers bespoke services to the people of Penkridge and surrounding areas. This facility is beautifully set up, very clean, clinical, and organised; we believe it is a true asset to the local community. Services offered include weight management, blood test screening, vaccinations, a travel clinic, ear wax removal, cryotherapy, a skin clinic, a Women’s Health clinic and much more.
The report contains seven recommendations on the facilities, obtaining feedback, patient education and out of stock medication.