Local Pharmacy Wins National Award

Dysart Pharmacy has won an award at a national pharmacy awards ceremony.

The pharmacy, which opened only 12 months ago, received national recognition by becoming a finalist in four categories, and a winner of “Pharmacy Manager of the year” at the prestigious Scottish Pharmacy Awards on 2^nd November at the Thistle Hotel in Glasgow.

Allan Shields, Pharmacy Manager, was awarded the title for his dedication to complete patient care while building the new business since its opening in October 2010. Allan identified that while offering a high standard of pharmacy services, it would be beneficial to the local residents to offer an array of healthcare services. The pharmacy currently offers the services of a complementary therapist, a chiropodist and an audiologist from its onsite treatment room.

Allan envisages his role being at the heart of the community and has given talks to several local groups over the previous few months. The topics have ranged from medicines use and safety to awareness of community pharmacy services. Recently he has spoken to a Kirkcaldy-based patient support group, a local retirement educational group and several primary school classes at some of the local primary schools.

The pharmacy teams' enthusiasm and innovative approach to healthcare has helped to raise awareness of the available pharmacy services to the local community, which include smoking cessation, emergency hormonal contraception, the Minor Ailment Service and the Chronic Medication Service.

Allan said, “The whole pharmacy team is delighted at having won such a prestigious award. We have worked very hard since our opening and have tried to adopt a fresh approach to community pharmacy. To have our efforts nationally recognised already is a great achievement. Our main aim has always been to exceed all expectations of our customers, and we will continue to work towards this.”