Cold sores. Diabetes. Urinary Tract Infections: three medical conditions that nobody wants left untreated. Albertsons pharmacy manager Tiffany Calas says now it is easier than ever to get treated.
"We get questions almost daily-- or sometimes several times a day-- particularly for, 'What can I use for a cold sore?'" Calas said. "Or, 'What can I use over-the-counter? I've had several Urinary Tract Infections. My doctor's closed. What can I take?'"
As a part of a statewide change in law, Albertsons pharmacists are now choosing to prescribe for three specific conditions: cold sores, Urinary Tract Infections, and Diabetes.
Other pharmacies may also begin writing prescriptions for short-term illnesses or chronic conditions.
"It's exciting. I became a pharmacist because I truly want to help people, and this is just another way, that, when they come up to me, instead of saying sorry, I can give them something that is easy access," Calas said. "We have the knowledge base as well to be able to provide these services."
Calas tells us that Albertsons Pharmacies will require a brief interview and prior diagnosis before prescribing in most cases.