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Almost nine in ten community pharmacists in England say they have patients who sometimes go without prescription medicines because they cannot afford the prescription charge levied by the government. Sixty-eight per cent of pharmacists in a National Pharmacy Association (NPA) survey, conducted via email in June 2022, said this has become more frequent in the past year - suggesting that the rising cost of living could be leading more people to miss out on vital medicines. While prescription charge does not apply in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, in England an NHS patients needs to pay £9.35 per item. For patients who need multiples medicines the cost could be exponential and virtually unaffordable amid rising inflation and higher cost of living. The survey found that 89 per cent of pharmacies in England have patients who sometimes go without prescription medicines due to cost. For most pharmacists (74 per cent) this happens one to five times a week. Fifteen per cent said they see such patients from six to 20 times a week.

Addiction is a difficult disease to deal with, both for the person who is struggling with it and for their loved ones. If you have a family member who is battling addiction, it can be hard to know what to do to help them. The good news is that there are things you can do to support your loved ones and improve their chances of recovery. In this blog post, we will discuss six ways that families can help their loved ones struggling with addiction. 1. EDUCATE YOURSELF ABOUT ADDICTION AND WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP To truly be able to help a family member who is struggling with addiction, you first need to educate yourself about the disease. This means learning about what causes addiction, how it affects the mind and body, and what you can do to support your loved one through their recovery journey. There are plenty of resources available online and at your local library that can help you learn more about addiction. You can also attend support groups for families of addicts, which can provide valuable information and emotional support. If you take the time to educate yourself about addiction, you'll be in a much better position to help your loved one through their struggle.

The world has never been in a better position to end the Covid-19 pandemic, the head of the World Health Organization said on September 14, his most optimistic outlook yet on the years-long health crisis which has killed over six million people. "We are not there yet. But the end is in sight," WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus told reporters at a virtual press conference. That was the most upbeat assessment from the UN agency since it declared an international emergency in January 2020 and started describing Covid-19 as a pandemic three months later. The virus, which emerged in China in late 2019, has killed nearly 6.5 million people and infected 606 million, roiling global economies and overwhelming healthcare systems. The rollout of vaccines and therapies have helped to stem deaths and hospitalisations, and the Omicron variant which emerged late last year causes less severe disease. Deaths from Covid-19 last week were the lowest since March 2020, the U.N. agency reported.

Scottish community pharmacies will now hold two Naloxone kits, available in either nasal spray or injectable form, essential for reversing opioid overdoses. The Emergency Access Naloxone Scheme, which is backed by £300,000 of Scottish Government funding, began on Monday (30 October). Drugs and Alcohol Policy Minister Elena Whitham said, "Through our National Mission to reduce drug deaths and harms, we have invested more than £3 million in widening access to Naloxone, including through our emergency services." Witham said this new nationwide service is a welcome addition to existing services. "Police Scotland recently completed a force-wide rollout to 12,500 officers who have used the kits more than 300 times. According to the most recent statistics, 70 per cent of those who are at risk of opioid overdose are being provided with a lifesaving kit," she added. "It provides a substantial increase in life-saving emergency access and I'm grateful to all those in community pharmacies who are supporting our £250 million National Mission to reduce drug deaths," Whitham said.

The Medicine and Healthcare Product Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has recalled all pholcodine-containing medicines from the UK pharmacy due to concerns of its potential to cause a severe allergic reaction in some people having general anaesthesia for surgery. The decision was made following the conclusion of a review of post-marketing safety data by the MHRA. The Commission on Human Medicines (CHM) has considered the evidence of an increased risk of the very rare event of anaphylaxis when exposed to neuromuscular blocking agents (NMBA) and advised that pholcodine-containing medicines should be withdrawn. MHRA has advised pharmacists to consider recommending appropriate treatment alternatives for patients who present with a new dry cough or who are currently taking pholcodine. Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) President Professor Claire Anderson said: "If you are taking a cough medicine (including tablets and syrups), check the packaging, label or Patient Information Leaflet to see if pholcodine is a listed ingredient - if it is, and you have any questions, you can talk to your pharmacist who can suggest a different medicine suitable for you.

The new 'How to Involve and Engage Patients on Digital Health Tech Innovation' learning module has been created specifically to support the development and delivery of patient-centric technologies, at a time of critical digital transformation in the NHS. The foundation level module will be freely available at www.orcha-digitalhealthacademy.com and on the Health Education England NHS Learning Hub (learninghub.nhs.uk). No training previously exists on conducting effective patient and public involvement and engagement (PPIE), leading to wasted resource on unsuitable technologies at a time when the healthcare system simply cannot afford it. The module aims to educate innovators who are creating new technology, and the clinicians who are prescribing these solutions. Crucially, the module also provides valuable support to the 500 NHS clinicians who are on the Clinical Entrepreneur Programme. The module is an introduction to the first evidence-based framework for PPIE, launched by the University of Plymouth, the AHSN Network (the national voice of the 15 academic health science networks in England) and Boehringer Ingelheim UK & Ireland. It helps to fast-track learning for the EnACT principles described in the framework, outlining how to involve patients in product innovation and critical issues such as data privacy, intellectual property, inclusivity, reimbursement, useability, and recruitment of patients.

In 2024, cannabis users will get more protection from their employers when it comes to smoking outside of work. In the meantime, here's a refresher on who can use weed - and when and where - in California. Can my employer penalize me for cannabis use? California recently passed a new cannabis bill, protecting employees from weed bias, but it will be a while before it goes into effect. Called AB 2188, it bans employers from discriminating against employees based on their use of weed off the job and away from the workplace. This includes the hiring, employment and termination processes. The law's exceptions include people working in the construction and building industry or positions that require federal background clearances. And while it protects off-duty smoking, employers will still have the right to fire or suspend employees for using weed or being high while at work. Although the bill was signed by Gov. Gavin Newsom in September, it won't be carried out until January 2024. Weed might be legal, but not for everyone Recreational cannabis use has been legal since 2016, but only for those 21 years old and over. Those under 18 who are caught with weed will be subject to drug education or counseling and community service. People who are older than 18 but under 21, will be fined up to $100. But minors can apply for a medical marijuana identification card to get weed for medicinal purposes. In California, children under 18 years old can apply as a patient if they are emancipated or have declared self-sufficiency status, according to the state's Department of Health. If they do not have this status, then the county will contact the individual's parent or legal guardian. The legal limit of weed How much cannabis you can have on hand is limited in California, according to the state's health and safety code. You'll be penalized if you possess more than 28.5 grams of weed, or more than eight grams of concentrated cannabis - essentially about one

The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) on Wednesday (9 January) announced that the novel type 2 oral polio vaccine (nOPV2) has been quality-assured (prequalified) by the World Health Organization (WHO). Developed by a team including scientists from the MHRA, nOPV2 is considered a safer polio vaccine that helps to protect children from the disabling and life-threatening disease and lower the risk of vaccine-derived outbreaks. The vaccine received WHO Emergency Use Listing three years ago, and since then 950 million doses have been delivered worldwide. The UN health agency's decision to add it to the list of prequalified vaccines is based on the analysis of outcomes in vaccinated populations that has confirmed strong safety profile and effectiveness.

Shabbir Jafferali, owner of Wilmshurst Pharmacy in Lancing, is one of 28 remarkable individuals who will be recognised with the prestigious British Citizen Award (BCA) at the Palace of Westminster on Thursday, January 18. The BCA, in partnership with One Stop, recognises exceptional people around the UK who are making a difference in their communities. Sussex Express, which first broke the news, stated that Shabbir has been working as a community pharmacist for over 40 years, providing not only health care, but a listening ear and selfless community care. He treats everyone who use his pharmacy with sensitivity and care, and takes the time to know the names and ailments of his customers as well as their personal circumstances.

The incredible consequences that drug misuse has imposed on humans in the last few years make it one of the most pressing issues facing such nations. A person who is addicted to drugs or alcohol often turns to these substances as a crutch while they're going through tough times. Taking the drug regularly becomes habitual since it provides short-term relief without permanently resolving the issue. An important part of becoming sober is learning to substitute better routines for the addict's old, harmful ones. These self-care routines and healthy habits are much better ways to deal with stress. Here we will explain how healthy behavior throughout addiction recovery is simply one of many methods to adapt to life after treatment. Physical Activity Scientific studies have shown that physical activity increases levels of two hormones. dopamine and serotonin, which are linked to better mood. A more positive outlook, restful sleep, and enhanced general health are all possible outcomes of these hormones. In the early stages of your rehabilitation, it is wise to start an exercise regimen that you have never done before. You may find new sober friends and interactions, as well as inspiration to improve your physical health, by connecting with other people who share your interests in physical activity. In the early stages of recovery, having sober friends may be really helpful since it allows you to connect with those who understand what you're going through. Friendships formed in early recovery often continue long after the addict has left the program, according to many people in recovery.

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has launched a campaign to caution people with food allergies about the risk of products labelled as 'vegan'. People who have an allergy to milk, eggs, fish and crustaceans or molluscs are encouraged to always check for a precautionary allergen statement such as 'may contain' on products labelled 'vegan' before consuming the food. The launch of the campaign comes in the wake of recent research findings by the FSA that 62 per cent of individuals with reactions to animal-based products or who buy for someone with allergies were confident that products labelled 'vegan' are safe to eat. This is "incorrect" and may put them at risk, the agency said. The FSA study found that 54 per cent of people who experience reactions to animal-based products and 53 per cent of those purchasing for someone with a food hypersensitivity to animal-origin products have used vegan labelling to determine the safety of packaged food on at least some occasions.

In a new study, men who took phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitors (PDE5Is), such as Viagra (sildenafil; Pfizer), for treatment of erectile dysfunction, were found to be 18 per cent less likely to develop Alzheimer's compared to those who did not take the drugs. The results of the population-based cohort study were published in Neurology on 7 February 2024. Researchers at University of Oxford examined IQVIA Medical Research Data UK records of 269,725 men, who were diagnosed with erectile dysfunction between January 2000 and March 2017. None of the participants had any memory or thinking problems at the start of the study and they were followed for an average of 5.1 years. During the study, 749 out of 1,119 participants taking erectile dysfunction drugs developed Alzheimer's disease.

Hobbs, who joined the company in 2019, navigated it through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, and successfully oversaw the acquisition and integration of Lexon in 2023. He will retire from the company at the end of September 2024. "After five years with the company, I am retiring at the end of September to spend time with my wife who was diagnosed with motor neurone disease last year," Hobbs said. "I wish to extend my personal thanks to our owners, the Bestway Group, for their kindness and understanding of our situation. "It has been a privilege to lead the Well Pharmacy, now Bestway Healthcare organisation. The business is resilient for today and fit to prosper in the long term. When I leave it will be with gratitude and admiration for the 7,500+ people in Bestway Healthcare who are committed to improving the lives of our patients and customers, thank you all."

Geneva/New Delhi: The World Health Organisation (WHO) had in 2000 declared that leprosy was eliminated globally but now WHO finds that it remains an unfinished agenda and continue to afflict the vulnerables. The latest WHO data shows, 94% of the new cases are reported from 13 countries and India tops the list.

Cerebral palsy-also known as CP-is a condition caused by injury to the parts of the brain that control our ability to use our muscles and bodies. Cerebral means having to do with the brain. Palsy means weakness or problems with using the muscles. Often the injury happens before birth, sometimes during delivery, or soon after being born. Physical symptoms typically appear in the first few years of life. Cerebral Palsy are frequently slow to reach developmental milestones such as learning to roll over, sit, crawl, smile, or walk. Cerebral Palsy occurs in 1 in every 300 children (Source: Center for Disease Control). CP can be mild, moderate, or severe. Mild CP may mean a child is clumsy. Moderate CP may mean the child walks with a limp. He or she may need a special leg brace or a cane. More severe CP can affect all parts of a child's physical abilities.Child with moderate or severe CP may have to use a wheelchair and other special equipment. Children with CP can also have learning problems, speech, problems with hearing or seeing (called sensory problems), intellectual differences, and behavioral or emotional challenges. Cerebral palsy does not always cause serious disabilities. Usually, the greater the injury to the brain, the more severe the CP. However, CP doesn't get worse over time, and most children with CP have a normal life span. Wheelchair Pediatric Pediatric Wheelchairs we offer are designed specifically for a wide range of children. All pediatric wheelchair can be configured with many accessories to meet your specific needs. Comfortable, sporty, and reliable.This is an ideal system for pediatric patients who require multiple tilt angles for pressure relief, digestion and fixed seat positions. Pediatric Chairs divided into three major categories.Pediatric Chairs isn't an official thing, but it helped me when I was comparing various models. The main categories are standard, tilt, and stroller-style. I suggest checking them all out to

Reclining Wheelchairs are specially designed to allow a person to comfortably recline at incremental angles safely and comfortably. Typically used for accommodation of severe hip extension contractures, or thostatic hypotension, and pressure re-distribution for prevention of skin breakdown. Recliner Wheelchairs work better with Elevating Legrests (ELRs); the user's legs and feet can also be re-positioned for maximum comfort and health benefits. The "ELRs" are optional on some models and standard on others. Be sure to ask about which type of ELR is best suitable for seating and position needs. On some wheelchairs this is an option so be sure to check the options and accessories when purchasing. Reclining Back Wheelchair( bed cum wheelchair ) which are suitable for indoor as well as outdoor purposes. These wheel chairs are manufactured using high quality material to ensure high strength and durability. Wheelchairs are available in foldable frames and are capable for maximum weight. Reclining wheelchairs are available in standard folding frames with extended head supports and seat widths up to 24" wide. The recline mechanism is attendant operated with levers much like a bicycle brake lever. The levers operate hydraulic (pump) mechanisms for a smooth adjustment. Using this reclining mechanism, the chair back can easily and frequently be positioned to any angle. Flexible Back Positioning: Reclining chairs offer unlimited back re-positioning for more patient comfort, better blood circulation, and to aid in sleeping. Work best with ELRs: Recliner chairs need Elevating Legrest so the patients legs and feet can also be re-positioned for maximum comfort. On some chairs this is an option so be sure to check the options and accessories section of each product page. Only the Back moves: On recliner wheelchairs the back reclines but the seat bottom stays in-place. Karma Aurora 4 Reclining Wheelchair: Frame Style : Fordable Frame Material : Aluminium (

Reclining Child Wheelchair Pediatric Reclining wheelchair is designed especially for children and offers the maximum in safety and comfort that is sure to put smiles on the faces of parents and children alike.The precision crafted reclining mechanism provides ultra smooth reclining performance and comes standard with swing away detachable elevating legrests. Reclining Child Wheelchairs for children have a backrest which can be reclined independently of the rest of the seating system.Reclining wheelchairs will have a long wheelbase for stability and a high backrest to ensure your child remains supported when reclined. Reclining backrests can be a useful feature for children Are unable to sit upright for sustained periods because of weak muscles in the upper body, or a stiff spine or hip. Have difficulty breathing. Are receiving treatment that require them to be in a reclined position. Key features: *Reclining backrest *Comfortable seat *Elevating or standard leg rests *Lightweight folding design

young children have a different set of needs than adults. Aesthetically, devices designed for kids are often sleek and colorful, and functionally, they are typically lightweight and adjustable. As any parent knows, young people don't stay the same size for long and since a wheelchair is a major purchase -- don't want a simple growth spurt to render it useless. Wheelchair category offers models that feature seat width and depth adjustability, elevating legrests, and other versatile features. As a weight-bearing activity is critical to proper physical and mental function-which is why children with cerebral palsy, who may sit for stretches in a wheelchair and typically are unable to stand on their own, can benefit greatly from pediatric standers as part of a comprehensive pediatric rehabilitation program. Pediatric standers are offered in passive, active and mobile formats: Passive standers stay in one place and feature a support surface, active standers allow reciprocal movement of the extremities while in a standing position, and mobile standers enable users to self-propel. Cerebral Palsy Wheelchair: Cerebral Palsy Wheelchair Description: The model designed for cerebral palsy child only. Ultra light weight aluminium alloy frame. Seat Width 38 cms (15"). Net Weight: 18.5 kgs. Epoxy powder coated frame. Detachable arm rest & foot rest provided. Elevated and swinging foot rest. Elevated foot rest provided to elevate leg angle. Height adjustable and detachable head rest. Hydraulic reclining high back for a comfortable posture. Hydraulic adjustable seat angle. Detachable back and seat pad. Extra cushion upholstery provided to under arm, head & calg Foldable. Lever and paddle brakes provided. Safety belt provided. Maintenance free rear solid wheels. Cloth look like water proof upholstery. Anti wheels for better safety and stability. Extra cushion upholstery provided to under arm, head & leg. Folding action. Lever and paddle brakes provide

Tynor Functional Knee Support is specially designed to support knees which are injured or not working properly due to old age. It stabilizes knees during rotational and anteroposterior forces and cures the ligamentous knee injuries. It provides support to the knees by wrapping around them and thus facilitates their compression. It provides flexibility and easy movement of the knee. It is made of soft, durable fabric which can be stretched in four ways. It mimics the natural knee joint. It can bear the load and shock exerted on it from the external forces leaving the knee totally free from pressure. It contains no buckling or vaso constriction which might hinder comfort. It ensures the proper circulation of blood. It compresses the patellar region and hold it in right position and thus can be used for patellofemoral diseases. It is easy to maintain. Tynor Functional Knee Support Functional knee Support is an anterior opening device, which offers the advantage of controlled compression around the knee and a rigid lateral support and immobilization. It allows normal flexion and free movement of the knee joint. Anterio Open able Easy application Controlled compression. Perfect lateral splinting. Anatomical design. Tynor Functional Knee Support Features Bi axial heavy duty aluminum hinge Mimics the natural knee joint Ensures full weight bearing. Allows free flexion movement Four way stretchable fabric Controlled and comfortable compression No buckling No vaso constriction Enhanced comfort Open patella design Release patellar pressure Hold the patella in position Can be used for Patellofemoral diseases Wrap design with anterior closing Easy application and removal on swollen or asymmetric knees Easy application and removal for weak or geriatric patients. Allows customized compression Offers flexibility in sizing Ergonomic design Anti tourniquet effect - ensures no constriction to blood flow Better grip of the product to the bo

Prime minister Rishi Sunak appointed Conservative MP for North East Cambridgeshire Steve Barclay as secretary of state for health and social care on 25 October 2022. He previously held the same role between 5 July and 6 September - after Sajid Javid resigned as health secretary. As head of the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) his responsibilities will include "overall financial control and oversight of NHS delivery and performance" as well as "oversight of social care policy". Mr Barclay was succeeded by Thérèse Coffey, who thanked her "great ministerial team" at the DHSC in a Tweet, before taking up her new responsibility as environment secretary in the new cabinet. As head of the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) his responsibilities will include "overall financial control and oversight of NHS delivery and performance" as well as "oversight of social care policy". Mr Barclay was succeeded by Thérèse Coffey, who thanked her "great ministerial team" at the DHSC in a Tweet, before taking up her new responsibility as environment secretary in the new cabinet.