MediCare branches offer health checks

MediCare’s screening events, which coincide with Diabetes Awareness Week (June 12-18) will take place in 30 MediCare pharmacies across Northern Ireland, with two local events planned.

According to Diabetes UK, in 2010, there were 70,000 people in Northern Ireland living with diabetes, thousands more undiagnosed, and estimations that this figure will have doubled by the year 2025. Diabetes is a condition which can have serious implications. These include stroke, kidney failure, limb amputation, blindness and the reduction of life expectancy by up to 25%.

The health checks MediCare are able to offer involve pharmacists taking a small, finger-prick, blood sample and measuring the levels of glucose.

A firm diagnosis will not be made, but those with raised blood sugar may be advised to see their GP for definitive testing.

As well as this glucose screening, the pharmacy team will also be offering free health MOTs which include blood pressure and cholesterol testing.

Dr Deirdre McAree, MediCare Professional Services Manager, said: “The health checks we offer are a great way of raising awareness about various conditions including diabetes. They give our patients the opportunity to ask questions about their health whilst our pharmacists can provide key health messages and signpost to other healthcare professionals when appropriate.”

To book your free health check at MediCare Ahoghill on Wednesday, June 15, or MediCare Broughshane on Friday, June 17, drop in or contact them today on 028 25871378 (Ahoghill) or 028 25861206 (Broughshane).