A study of the advisory and health promotion activity of community pharmacists

Abstract

MUCH attention is currently being paid to the role of the community pharmacist in dealing with minor complaints. The most commonly presented symp toms are those concerning upper respiratory disease, and in particular, coughs. In these cases opportun ities for health promotion may be expected to arise. The quality of advice given to clients presenting with a cough was investigated using tape-record ings of consultations between pharmacists and cli ents. Many cases are associated with short-term self-limiting minor illness. However, there are a min ority of cases in which more serious underlying prob lems may be present. To ensure appropriate care, more systematic and comprehensive questioning is required. Despite the encouragement of and focus on the potential health promotion role of community pharmacists, opportunities for this were not often pursued.