Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment in North Tyneside
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Healthwatch North Tyneside was asked by North Tyneside’s Health and Wellbeing board to gather evidence of resident’s experiences of pharmacy services in the borough to inform a review of the Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment (PNA). The PNA is produced every 3 years, with the last PNA being written and published in 2022. Feedback from residents is an important part of the PNA. The engagement has produced a rich source of information about pharmacy services in North Tyneside. Much of this information has wider implications than the review of the PNA. They undertook a survey to which 843 people responded.
People use pharmacies for a number of purposes, mainly to get prescriptions and over the counter medication.
Over half used pharmacies at least once a month. Nearly two thirds used the same pharmacy each time. Two thirds used a high street pharmacy.
Over two in five walk to the pharmacy. Most were able to get there within 10 minutes.
Nearly three quarters used their pharmacy during normal office hours.
Over four in five were either satisfied or very satisfied with pharmacy opening hours.
People chose pharmacies for a wide variety of reasons, but largely because they were near home or had good quality of service.
Over half were able to get all the items they needed. Over a quarter said that they could get free of charge delivery of items if they couldn't collect them.
Over nine in ten were satisfied with access to prescriptions.
On average over half had consulted with their pharmacist in the last 12 months. Enquiries were largely about a minor health issue, medication or vaccination.
Over three in five were satisfied with access to advice from a pharmacist.
Over three in ten would like to access pharmacy services online in future.