Pharmacy chain to offer ‘men’s NCTs’

FEELING under the weather, run down or just looking to check your health?

With the rush of daily life, fewer people are taking time out to see their GP or doctor for regular check-ups.

Together with the usual bouts of winter flu which will spread across the country over the coming months, many people will need to stock up on medications.

A pharmacy chain has taken it upon itself to set up health screening areas in stores and utilise customer visits. The health checkups are billed as ‘men’s NCTs’.

Cholesterol levels, diabetes checks, iron levels, blood pressures and asthma related tests will be offered with results in minutes, according to McCabes Pharmacies who have launched the initiative. Staff have also said customers can be referred to doctors if needed.

Yesterday, the group announced: “Each health check area will be managed by a pharmacist or a clinical technician. The tests meet strong quality controlled standards and protocols.

“The blood pressure, lung capacity and BMI screening services are free, and there is a small charge for cholesterol, glucose and iron levels screening.”

Appointments can made over the phone or by dropping into pharmacies and getting tests on the spot.

Centres that offer the service will include Dundrum town centre, Clarehall in Ballymun, the Crescent shopping centre in Limerick as well as other stores.

At the launch of the health check yesterday, the group said: “Many people avoid going to the doctor or hospital when they are feeling unwell or when it is time for a checkup.”