Essex pharmacies launch new lung health screening service

Pharmacists in Essex are to offer lung disease screenings as part of a new pilot project being launched by the local NHS trust.

Seven community pharmacies across the region are to assess patients for risk of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease over the next six months under the NHS Mid Essex scheme, which could be extended if it proves successful.

The initiative will see those deemed to be susceptible to the potentially deadly disease referred to GPs or other health services that can assist them, including asthma clinics and help groups.

It is hoped that this will be the first in a number of projects co-developed by the primary care trust, secondary care and the local pharmaceutical committee.

Su Stephens, commissioning manager for long-term conditions at NHS Mid Essex, said: "We want to encourage people to be aware of the importance of healthy lungs and place a strong emphasis on prevention."

Earlier this month, the National Pharmacy Association emphasised the role that pharmacists can play in providing health services, following the publication of a government white paper.