Page 9 - P4304.1-V111_PS Magazine - July 25

Is social media worth Keep it simple: a few things you

it for dispensaries? can post

You don’t need to post daily, or even weekly. But if you’re wondering where to
start, here are some ideas:
Why digital visibility matters—

“Don’t forget!” reminders
even in the world of dispensing for ordering prescriptions Notices when stock comes

If you’ve ever rolled your eyes at the idea of your dispensary “needing an ahead of holidays. back in (e.g. flu vaccines).
Instagram,” you’re not alone. Social media might seem like something for
influencers or retail giants—not GP surgeries. But when used in the right way, A quick thank-you to Photos of the team
it can be a surprisingly simple and effective tool for dispensing practices to patients for their patience during awareness
connect with patients, promote services, and build trust. during busy times. weeks or training days.
The good news? You don’t need fancy filters, a content strategy, or someone
glued to their phone. You just need a presence—and a purpose.
Common worries—answered

Why even bother? “We don’t have time.”

You don’t need a dedicated social media manager. One post every week or two,
scheduled in advance if needed, is enough to stay visible.
“We’re not very techy.”
That’s fine. Facebook is usually the best place to start—many rural practices
2. It’s free marketing. already use it. You can stick to simple text posts and use your phone for quick
updates.
You don’t need to spend a
penny to remind patients “We’re worried about complaints.”
1. Y our patients are about prescription cut- Patient concerns should always be taken seriously, but you can set clear

off times, new services,
already there. flu jab availability, or bank guidelines (e.g. “please contact the surgery directly for prescription queries”)
Many dispensing patients— holiday closures. A simple and moderate comments if needed. If you’re receiving frequent or inappropriate
especially in rural areas—are post can do the job. comments on Facebook, there are tools to help. You can limit who can comment
active on Facebook, checking on each post—choosing from options like ‘Public’, ‘Pages you follow’, or ‘Profiles
local news, school updates, and Pages you mention’. This helps to reduce the likelihood of off-topic or
and community events. If your aggressive replies. These features can help pharmacy teams strike the right
dispensary isn’t visible, they’ll balance between being accessible and protecting staff from unnecessary
look elsewhere for answers. pressure or distress.
Start small. Stay consistent.
Social media won’t replace your day-to-day dispensing work—but it can make it

3. It helps reduce phone traffic. easier. The key is to start small and find what works for your community. Whether
it’s a reminder here or a thank-you there, a little bit of visibility can go a long way.
Answering the same questions over the
phone each day? Use social media to get
If you’re already using Facebook or thinking of giving
ahead of the curve. Posting opening hours,
delays, or reminders helps patients stay
it a go, PSUK would love to hear how you’re getting on.
informed—and keeps the lines clearer.
Got a great tip or a success story? Share it with us at
enquiries@psuk.co.uk.

8 PS Magazine | MDS Terms Information Buy direct online at PSUK.co.uk or call us on 01904 558 350 MDS Terms Information | PS Magazine 99