Update on community pharmacy situation in Fort William

NHS Highland has just announced at lunchtime today (Friday) that there will be a significantly reduced community pharmacy service in Fort William over the weekend.

 

This is due to an ongoing shortage of pharmacists available to work across community pharmacy, primary care and secondary care pharmacy.

 

Boots pharmacy will be closed today and tomorrow (Friday and Saturday July 9) and Lloyds Pharmacy in the High Street will be open this afternoon (Friday) only.

 

Caol Pharmacy is open this morning and tomorrow morning (Saturday). NHS Highland says it is working with local GP practices to support patients who may require support outwith these times.

 

Ian Rudd, NHS Highland Director of Pharmacy, said: 'We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

 

'There is a national shortage of community pharmacists and we are experiencing significant shortages in the Lochaber area over the next few days.

 

'We are working closely with the area managers for Boots and Lloyds to prevent subsequent future closes.

 

'We have made arrangements with local GP practices and out-of-hours teams to support patients who receive continuing treatment over the next few days.

 

'We would advise that common remedies such as paracetamol and some antihistamines can be purchased over-the-counter in retail outlets.

 

'If anyone has any concerns about their medication they can contact NHS 24 on 111 any time day or night to access support and guidance. People should always contact 999 in an emergency.'