I recently visited Chappells, an independent pharmacy that has been an established Crowborough name since the 1930’s. Now owned by Mr Sharma, the pharmacy has grown in services and offers a growing range of local healthcare provision.
The pharmacy is also pleased to support the NHS Pharmacy First Service, including: Earache, Impetigo, Infected insect bites, Shingles, Sinusitis, Sore Throat and Uncomplicated unitary tract infections (UTI), the latter which is very common.
I was pleased to meet local pharmacy owner Mr Sharma who has been in the business since 1983 and to witness first-hand the work of his team of highly qualified staff offering essential care and support to the local community.
The pharmacy business is so much more than handing out prescriptions. Mr Sharma’s high street premises have consulting rooms, a range of growing health advisory services, as well as all the latest tech supporting their dispensary operation. However, I learned that the funding doesn’t always cover the range of services they are expected to provide. I echo their calls for the government to review funding arrangements which would allow pharmacies to take a lead on basic health issues and to take the pressure off GP services.
I am also really delighted that the pharmacy supports the work of local charity Clued Up and help young with their physical and mental health concerns. It is so good to see local organisations working together.
