This page explains resources that may help people with hearing or vision problems, and people who have challenges with medicines.
Pharmacists
Pharmacists and pharmacy staff can:
- Provide advice and support about medicines. They can be found in community pharmacies (chemists), many general medical practices, and hospitals. In some countries, drug stores also have pharmacists.
- Explain how to use medicines safely and correctly. This includes when to take them, how to store them (for example, some need to be kept in a fridge), and how to dispose of unused medicines. Medicines should not be
flushed down the toilet or put in household waste. They should be returned to a pharmacy for safe destruction to protect the environment.
- Suggest products and solutions to help people identify, store, and take medicines. In some countries, pharmacists provide blister packs or compartment boxes to help people take the right medicine at the right
time.
Sources of Accessible Information about Medicines
Accessible Patient Information Leaflets (PILs)
In the UK, the X-PIL service (www.medicines.org.uk) provides leaflets about medicines in large print, Braille, and on audio CD. The service is free and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Phone: 0800 198 5000
Users will need the medicine name and product code number (found on the package or leaflet). A pharmacist can help find this number if needed.
Pharmacy Label Translation
Translabel is a free service that helps pharmacists give accurate translations of common label instructions for patients whose first language is not English. Over 50 languages are available. All translations are checked by a professional service. Labels are printed on A4 paper, which may also help people with visual impairment.
Pictogram Library for Medicines
USP Pictograms are standard images that show instructions, warnings, or precautions for medicines. The USP library has over 80 pictograms in .gif or .eps format. They can be downloaded after agreeing to the United States Pharmacopeial Convention’s license agreement. The library can be accessed here.
Interpreter Services
Interpreter services are available in some areas for healthcare visits. These services support people with hearing loss and those who need information in their own language. They may include sign language interpreters such as British Sign Language (BSL) or Makaton.
Availability differs across regions and countries, and services often must be booked in advance.
Sometimes healthcare staff, family members, or carers can help with translation. However, this can cause problems with privacy and confidentiality.