Today (Friday 30 September), Thurrock's Health and Wellbeing Board published the updated Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment (PNA) for Thurrock.
Cllr Deb Arnold, Cabinet Member for Adults and Health, and Chair of Thurrock Health and Wellbeing Board, said: "The Thurrock PNA 2022 shows that the provision of current pharmaceutical services and locally commissioned services are well distributed across the borough. As part of this assessment, no gaps have been identified in provision either now or in the immediate future for pharmaceutical services deemed necessary by the Thurrock Health and Wellbeing Board.
"I would like to thank all of the residents who completed the PNA survey earlier this year to input into this document. We had a great response and your feedback is truly appreciated.
"As we move further forward following the coronavirus pandemic, its impact is still being felt by residents and health providers alike. Pharmacies went above and beyond throughout the pandemic and for many of us, continue to support us with health issues, forming a vital key hub in the centre of our communities, and for that I would like to personally thank them. Their support at that time and now as we move forward is invaluable to us all."
In Thurrock, pharmaceutical services are provided by community pharmacies, internet pharmacies, and providers of specialist medical appliances, also known as appliance contractors. Community pharmacies work alongside GP surgeries, provide communities with healthcare support and advice and are often the first point of contact when people are concerned about their health. Don't forget, your pharmacy is an alternative to your GP for advice on looking after minor illnesses in yourself and your family – for example, coughs and colds or up to date advice on long-term conditions such as arthritis or diabetes.
The full PNA is online at www.thurrock.gov.uk/public-health/pharmaceutical-needs-assessment