Engaging men in the pharmacy

Many men don’t ask for help because they are embarrassed or assume symptoms are “just ageing”. Pharmacy technicians can play a big role in making pharmacies more approachable. Some practical ways to help include:

• Make the pharmacy environment ‘malefriendly’: display posters and information leaflets on men’s health and clearly signpost private consultation rooms
• Use everyday language: talk about “staying fit and active” rather than using medical terms
• Encourage conversations: open with phrases like “Lots of men ask about this” to normalise discussions
• Support outreach events: pharmacies sometimes run health checks in sports clubs or workplaces – pharmacy technicians can even help to organise or run these.

Conclusion 

Pharmacy technicians are often the first point of contact in pharmacies that men speak to about sensitive health issues. 

By recognising common symptoms, encouraging referral and supporting pharmacists with advice about medicines use, pharmacy technicians play a crucial part in optimising men’s health. 

Creating a welcoming and supportive environment in the pharmacy, as well as using non-medical language, is just as important as clinical knowledge.

With small changes in practice, pharmacy technicians can help more men take positive steps towards protecting and improving