PATIENTS with asthma at St Michael’s Medical Centre in Dumfries can now request an ‘eco-review’ of their inhaler prescription.
It will assess how they are managing their condition, the most effective treatment and include a discussion on the environmental sustainability of reliever inhalers.
Many inhalers use propellants that are powerful greenhouse gases to administer the medication. However, using a preventer inhaler and choosing a more environmentally friendly option can reduce reliance on the reliever or more environmentally harmful Metered Dose Inhalers (MDI).
NHS Dumfries and Galloway is leading the way nationally through the work taking place at St Michael’s, where patients are offered this opportunity to discuss how treatment impacts the environment and what individuals can do to manage their condition in a more sustainable way.
It’s part of wider NHS Scotland efforts to improve sustainability and reduce environmental impact.
Dumfries-based clinical pharmacist Dr Emily Kennedy, who is working with the Scottish Government’s Effective Prescribing and Therapeutics Division on Sustainable Prescribing, say it’s an opportunity for patients to have a conversation with both their health and the environment in mind.
She said: “Our goal is to ensure each patient has the best treatment while also contributing to the fight against climate change.
“We know how important inhalers are for managing asthma, and we are not asking anyone to change inhalers unless it’s clinically appropriate.”
n To request a review, call the surgery on 01387 244950 or email [email protected].
