Lindsay & Gilmour Embraces Telehealth Technology

A Clackmannanshire pharmacy has become the first in Scotland's 'Wee County' to embrace groundbreaking telehealth technology.

The Telehealth Solutions ‘Cardio Pod’ has been installed at Lindsay and Gilmour in the village of Sauchie, near Alloa.

A family firm, Lindsay & Gilmour already offers an extensive range of services, which will be enhanced by the presence of the Cardio Pod. Now pharmacist Nicola Findlay can offer residents a full heart health check and lifestyle evaluation in just 20 minutes.

The portable Cardio Pod calculates the patient’s chances of having a heart attack in the next 10 years.  What sets the machine apart from its contemporaries is the striking visual impact of the results, which are displayed as a square of smiling and sad faces, the proportions of which vary with risk level.

Once the test is complete the pharmacist goes through a series of personal health goals with the patient. The results are then printed out for the patient to keep or take to their doctor if further medical action is required.

Nicola recently joined deputy superintendent pharmacist Yvonne Williams and Lindsay & Gilmour managing director and superintendent pharmacist Robbie McGregor for a Cardio Pod training session at the firm’s Edinburgh headquarters.

She said: “I think this will be a great way for the people of Sauchie and the wider community to monitor their heart health with minimal fuss. It is quick and convenient and removes the need for them to visit the doctor for a cardiovascular check.

“At the training session in Edinburgh, it was fascinating to learn, from the Telehealth Solutions team, how the machine works. I expected it to be slightly more difficult to use but, having watched a test being carried out, nothing could be further from the truth. I am delighted we are the first in our area to offer such a valuable service.”

Posted on Tuesday, 16 February 2010 under Home Pod