Pharmacists in the North West have delivered almost half a million consultations since January.
The NHS's leading pharmacist in the North West praised the 'tireless' work of the profession ahead of World Pharmacists Day on September 25.
The event, led by the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP), aims to increase awareness of the role of pharmacists.
This year the theme is 'Pharmacists: Meeting global health needs.'
Since October 2021, North West Blood Pressure Service has conducted 635,328 blood pressure checks, identifying 72,626 individuals with high or very high blood pressure.
By supporting timely care and diagnoses, pharmacies have helped prevent strokes and heart attacks across the region.
The North West's Contraception Service has supported 18,265 patients with the initiation or continuation of oral contraception, 'improving access and convenience' for women.
This year, the NHS also rolled out the Pharmacy First service, which allows community pharmacies to complete episodes of care for seven common conditions including earache, sore throat, and urinary tract infections.
Since its launch in January, this service has delivered 456,067 consultations across the North West, including urgent medicines supply, minor illness support, and treatment across seven clinical pathways.
Karen O’Brien, regional chief pharmacist at NHS England - North West, said: "Pharmacists in the North West are integral to the NHS, working tirelessly to support patients in community pharmacies, hospital settings, GP practices and through commissioning roles.
"They are ensuring quality patient care is delivered at every level, from routine consultations to urgent referrals.
"Their work is essential to improving the overall health of our North West communities and wider, and we are proud to highlight the important role they play."
Pharmacists can help people manage their conditions at home and provide self-care advice for those who need it.
They can be the first point of contact for those seeking face-to-face health advice.
Dr Paula Cowan, GP and medical director for primary care at NHS England - North West, said: "Community pharmacists are an important part of primary care, working closely with GP practices, optometrists, and dentists to provide care for patients.
"The partnership between these professionals ensures patients receive the right care at the right time, while also relieving pressure on other parts of the healthcare system."
As healthcare continues to evolve, pharmacists will remain at the forefront of primary and community care delivery, working together with other healthcare professionals in the region.
To find out more about NHS pharmacies, including the services they provide and where to find them, visit nhs.uk/nhs-services/pharmacies/
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