2 November 2011

Guild invites politicians to be seen in community pharmacy

The Pharmacy Guild of New Zealand wants MPs and candidates on the election trail to be seen in pharmacies around the country as a way of demonstrating their interest in their local community's health needs.

"Politicians want to be seen during the campaign. As the health professional that patients see most often, pharmacies are welcoming politicians who pop in during the campaign. We know the candidates want to be seen and visiting a pharmacy is a way to achieve this," Guild Chief Executive, Annabel Young, said today.

The Guild has been encouraging its member pharmacies to contact and meet with their local MPs and election candidates as part of its Be Bold political campaign to raise the profile of community pharmacy.

"Member pharmacies have been sending us photos of meetings with politicians and we are posting them on our Facebook page. But we always want more," she said.

"The election is a good time to demonstrate to politicians the valuable contribution played by pharmacists delivering primary healthcare. And the fact is, community pharmacy needs political champions. Now is a good time for politicians to show they care about the sector."

The Pharmacy Guild of New Zealand is a national membership organisation representing community pharmacy owners. It provides leadership on all issues affecting the sector and advocates for the interests of community pharmacy.

www.pgnz.org.nz

ENDS

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