When to refer
When to refer
The following customers should be referred to the pharmacist:
- Anyone under 18 years of age
- Anyone who is taking any other medication, including for ED
- Anyone who has had a stroke or heart attack in the last six months
- If they have any other medical conditions (e.g. sickle cell anaemia, stomach ulcer)
- Anyone with concerns about their heart health, physical fitness or symptoms of breathlessness
- Anyone who is uncertain of their diagnosis or is describing symptoms of premature ejaculation.
Remember!
- Many people find it embarrassing to talk about sexual health, so try to put them at ease by offering a private space to talk and taking a non-judgemental approach
- Think about what you say and how you say it. Tone of voice and gestures are as important as the words you use
- Explain why you require information so that the customer doesn’t feel defensive or intruded upon – for example, by saying: “I need to ask you some questions to make sure this is going to be the right treatment for you”
- Remember to protect the customer’s confidentiality
- Highlight the risks of buying medication over the internet and encourage customers to always visit a pharmacy to purchase them safely.
Signposting
For more information, you can:
- Use your Counter Intelligence Plus training guide
- Visit the NHS website: nhs.uk/conditions/erection-problems-erectile-dysfunction
- See what information is available from the Men’s Health Forum: menshealthforum.org.uk
- Learn about the effects of stress on the body and how to manage it from the Stress Management Society: stress.org.uk