Lincolnshire Community Pharmacy Report - September 2024
Healthwatch Lincolnshire conducted this survey on pharmacy services to support the health and care system by ensuring that residents' experiences are considered in the ongoing development and delivery of pharmaceutical services in the county. By capturing insights into the accessibility and quality of services, including the Pharmacy First scheme, we aim to highlight both strengths and areas for improvement in pharmacy care.
The findings from this survey will directly contribute to the Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment (PNA), a statutory document used to assess the health needs of the population and ensure that pharmaceutical services are adequate to meet those needs. The PNA helps inform decisions about pharmacy service provision, ensuring that local communities have access to the appropriate services and support.
This initiative is also part of our broader mission to tackle health inequalities across Lincolnshire. By sharing the voices and experiences of local residents, we aim to ensure that decisions around pharmaceutical care are equitable and reflect the real needs of the community.
Overall findings:
The Healthwatch Lincolnshire Pharmacy Survey conducted in September 2024 gathered insights from 160 respondents about their experiences with pharmacy services. Key findings include:
- Pharmacy Use and Access:
- 83% had visited a pharmacy in the past month.
- Most respondents used local pharmacies, with 25% relying on dispensing GP practices.
- 85% reported no difficulty accessing their pharmacy, though barriers like parking, wheelchair access, and limited opening hours affected some.
- Satisfaction and Services:
- Overall satisfaction was high, with respondents praising staff friendliness, accessibility, and knowledgeable service.
- Challenges were noted in stock shortages, prescription delays, and long waiting times.
- The Pharmacy First scheme received mostly positive reviews, with 80% rating it as good, though some were hesitant due to trust issues and privacy concerns.
- Areas for Improvement:
- Stock availability, processing delays, out-of-hours access, and better privacy were areas highlighted for improvement.
Some respondents reported poor customer service and difficulties for disabled individuals due to poor physical access.
A download link to the report is below. If you need the report in another format or would like to discuss anything, please email info@healthwatchlincolnshire.co.uk or call 01205 820 892.
