READY FOR CHRISTMAS: A FESTIVE PHARMACY CHECKLIST
The festive season is just around the corner and while most people are making shopping lists and wrapping gifts, community pharmacies are preparing for one of their busiest times of year.
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ith staff holidays, winter illnesses and a surge in prescription demand, December can feel like a whirlwind. A
little planning now can ensure patients stay supported, teams feel less pressured and everyone can enjoy a brighter Christmas.
Stocking Up for the Holidays Think of your shelves as Santa’s sleigh – they need to be full and ready for the journey ahead. Essential prescription medicines such as inhalers, antibiotics and pain relief should be well stocked, alongside over-the-counter favourites like cough remedies, decongestants and vitamins. Don’t forget seasonal essentials too: first-aid kits, hydration products and skincare to beat the winter chill. Double-check expiry dates, rotate stock and confirm delivery schedules with suppliers to avoid any last-minute surprises.
Wrapping Up Prescriptions Encourage patients to order their repeat prescriptions early so they’re not caught short on Christmas Eve. Online and app ordering can help
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spread the workload and provide convenience. Prioritise care home deliveries and prescriptions for vulnerable patients and check Controlled Drug prescriptions are valid before the holiday break. A little forward planning now avoids festive queues later.
Festive Rotas and Staff Wellbeing Rotas are the pharmacy equivalent of Christmas dinner seating plans – tricky, but essential. Agree holiday leave early, making sure there’s fair cover across the team. Schedule additional support for peak times and provide locums with clear guidance to keep services running smoothly. Have a backup plan for sickness or severe weather to avoid service gaps. Remember, a happy, supported team spreads festive cheer to patients.
Communicating Christmas Opening Hours Clarity is a gift in itself. Display your Christmas and New Year opening hours clearly in-store, on websites and across social media. Signpost
patients to the appropriate out-of-hours and emergency services and highlight cut-off times for delivery or 24/7 collection points. Don’t forget to give one final push on flu and COVID-19 vaccinations – a timely jab means families can gather with extra peace of mind.
Winter Wellness and Festive Spirit December is a great time to promote self-care. Vitamins, hydration aids and winter skincare make thoughtful stocking fillers as well as health boosters. Ensure consultation rooms are ready for seasonal services like vaccinations or minor ailments. Adding festive decorations, charity initiatives, or Christmas gift sets can create a welcoming atmosphere and strengthen ties with your community.
Final Word By keeping your Christmas checklist close to hand, your pharmacy can run smoothly through the holiday season – ensuring patients feel cared for, staff feel supported and the whole community enjoys a healthier, happier Christmas.
ENCOURAGE PATIENTS TO ORDER THEIR REPEAT PRESCRIPTIONS EARLY
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