ShareThisWhile pharmacists offer a wider range of services, some patients still should go to a doctor instead.
Patients who are in a high-risk group or may be at high risk for complications because of medications may want to consult a doctor as well as a pharmacist before deciding where to seek treatment.
Here's a list of services pharmacies are providing:
Immunizations, especially the flu shot
Health screenings for diseases such as diabetes
One-on-one counseling sessions
Diagnosis of minor ailments like the flu or colds in on-site clinics
Physicals
Skin exams
Doctors' offices and urgent care clinics offer most of those services. They're still the primary resources for more complicated procedures, including:
X-rays
Setting broken bones
Chiropractic issues, including neck and back pain
Mental health concerns
Illness involving reproductive, respiratory or urinary problems
Also:
CVS has found success with its Minute Clinics, in-store health clinics for diagnosing illnesses like colds and the flu. So far there are 500 in CVS stores. This fall, Target announced it would add similar health clinics in five Chicago-area stores, bringing its total number to 36 nationally.
Earlier this year, Rite Aid launched a new loyalty program called Wellness Plus that rewards shoppers with financial incentives and free screenings for problems like high cholesterol and diabetes.
Must credit The News and Observer of Raleigh, N.C.Sidebar with pharmaciesgrow
