HEALTH bosses have launched a new campaign aimed at raising awareness of the many services offered by pharmacies across Times Territory.

NHS East and North Hertfordshire – the brand name of the PCT – kicked off its Choose Well initiative at the Johns and Kelynack Pharmacy, inside Waitrose, WGC.

The campaign uses colour-coded thermometers to allow poorly residents to match their symptoms to the NHS service most suitable for their needs.

It is part of a drive to reduce the number of people who visit A&E departments unnecessarily every year.

Heather Gray, head of pharmacy and medicines management at the PCT, said: “Pharmacies like this one can do so much more than just dispense prescriptions.

“Pharmacists are experts in medicines and extremely valued and respected in Hertfordshire.

“They provide a vital service which helps people get advice and treatment for their symptoms on their doorstep. They are also in a unique position to provide health and lifestyle advice so that people can avoid becoming ill.”