Pharmacists, including online chemist service providers, may be called upon to help in the battle against joint problems, it has been reported. According Seven Seas research cited by Chemist+Druggist, healthcare providers including GPs and physiotherapists believe pharmacists could help tackle these health issues.
The company, which is a supplier of vitamins, minerals and supplements, surveyed a range of health professionals as part of its Joint Health of the Nation campaign and found that many of them endorsed the role of pharmacies in improving patient’s joint health. Nearly two-thirds said it would be beneficial for pharmacists to help in this way.
According to Seven Seas, the average person in the UK has a so-called ‘joint age’ that is more than ten years older than it should be. It found that three-quarters of 25 to 34 year-olds reported having joints that ached or creaked, while two-fifths had a joint age of over half a century.
Commenting on the issue, community pharmacist Raj Patel concurred with the idea that pharmacists, potentially including those that operate online pharmacy services, should play a greater role in dealing with the problems. He said: “It’s clear that joint health is a growing concern in the UK. On top of all the other pressures within the NHS and the tightened budgets we are facing, it’s crucial we maximise all aspects of the system to work as efficiently as possible.”
The expert added: “Pharmacists can be a leading provider of help and advice for customers needing to look after and treat their joints.”These days, consumers have a choice and can either head to pharmacies in person or can use online chemist services instead. When they opt to use online pharmacy provisions, they can get the products they want delivered to their doors. This added level of convenience is highly appealing to many individuals.