Health advice by machine (From Tewkesbury Admag)

Health advice by machine

A NORTH Cotswold pharmacist is making health advice available to his customers at the touch of a button.

Michael Gum, who runs the Stow Pharmacy in the Square, Stow, is one of only 250 pharmacists throughout the country to have installed a new health information system for customers.

"The doctor's role is changing and instead of going to the doctor you can come the pharmacy first. We are going to be the first point of information," said Michael, who has spoken to local GPs about the computerised system, which enables customers to find information about a wide range of ailments and medicines by using a touch-screen.

He says the system, which is updated monthly and approved by the major pharmaceutical bodies, has advantages over the internet in that users do not have to spend all evening trawling for the appropriate information.

Also, Michael is on hand to offer further advice if customers need it.

"If you have been diagnosed with high cholesterol, for example, it tells you about things like diet," he said. "It's all in plain English and we keep it in a private corner of the shop. It allays a lot of fears."

"Customers have responded positively. Some people can't get off it," he said. "It is supplementing the GP's advice and is not intended for self-diagnosis. It's more for minor ailments or medicines."

6 Michael Gum with the new health information system. dc6770-a