Boots UK and Macmillan Cancer Support launch new role to help people access cancer information
Boots UK has partnered with cancer support charity Macmillan to train over 500 pharmacists in its stores to help connect people suffering from cancer to access information and support in their local area.
The launch of the scheme marks the first time that the role of a pharmacist has been extended to include this type of cancer information and support. Boots said the Boots Macmillan Information Pharmacists will provide those affected by cancer with access to the information and support they need in an “accessible and trusted” environment.
Ciarán Devane, chief executive of Macmillan, said: “The Boots Macmillan Information Pharmacists are the next stage in what is already a strong and sector-leading partnership that we both are extremely proud of. Macmillan and Boots UK believe that by sharing expertise and working together, we can reach even more of the millions of people affected by cancer than we are currently.”
Research by the two organisations found that almost a third of people affected by cancer felt that they had insufficient information and support outside of their healthcare team. It also showed that nearly three quarters (74%) of people living with cancer felt that the information and support they received outside of their healthcare team made them better equipped to understand their cancer experience.
Never Miss a Retail Update!Alex Gourlay, chief executive of Health & Beauty Division, Alliance Boots, added: “The introduction of the Boots Macmillan Information Pharmacist means that for the millions of customers that visit Boots pharmacies across the country, they can access increased cancer information and support.
“The findings from this research highlight just how important accessing the right information at the right time can be for people affected by cancer and the role it can play in helping them to manage their condition.”
