Back to the future: why your community's pharmacist is more important than ever

Local pharmacies are returning to their roots by offering more than pills — providing advice, care and frontline services. Rather than join the queue in your doctor’s waiting room, should you visit your pharmacist first?

Pharmacist Jack Shanahan, Castleisland, Co. Kerry, pictured at work in his pharmacy, where he provides trusted healthcare advice, prescription services, and community support. Pic: Domnick Walsh

With more than 40 years’ experience as a pharmacist, Jack Shanahan has witnessed many changes in the profession. 

Indeed, given that his family has owned and run a pharmacy in Castleisland, Co Kerry, for almost 100 years, spanning three generations, it’s little surprise he has been immersed in the trade since long before he qualified.