Are Blister Packs Being Phased Out?

Blister packs are not being completely phased out in the UK healthcare space. While some pharmacies like Rowlands are switching to alternative packaging, others like Day-Lewis and Lloyds Pharmacy still offer patients blister packs. Boots is considering alternative supporting methods for patients.

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What is Blister Packaging?

Blister or compliance packs are pre-formed plastic packaging used for small consumer goods, foods, and pharmaceuticals. They protect the enclosed product against various external factors, including humidity, temperature and tampering.

In healthcare, blister packs are commonly used to hold medications, with individual compartments for each day of the week and different times of the day, helping patients remember when to take their medicine.

Why are Some Pharmacies Phasing Out Blister Packs?

Rowlands Pharmacy, a major pharmacy chain in the UK, has announced that it is phasing out blister packs. This move is part of an evolution in how pharmacies are conducting their services and the desire to drive efficiency in medication dispensing.

The main reason for moving away from blister packs is their environmental impact. Blister packs are generally made from plastic and foil, making them difficult to recycle. This makes blister packs a significant contributor to plastic waste.

Other reasons to phase out blister packs include the high cost of blister pack machines, labour costs associated with packing medicines into blister packs, and concerns about medication errors.

The Continuation of Blister Packs in Other Pharmacies

While Rowlands is moving away from blister packs, not all pharmacies are following suit.

Day Lewis and Lloyds Pharmacy, for instance, continue offering blister packs for patients who need them. These pharmacies believe that blister packs are crucial in helping patients manage their medication, especially for those with multiple medications, the elderly, and those with memory problems.

Boots, a leading pharmacy chain, is also considering alternative supporting methods for patients, recognising environmental concerns while understanding blister packs’ vital role in patient medication management.

What are the Alternatives or Complementary Systems to Blister Packs?

More modern and eco-friendly alternatives to blister packs are emerging, which pharmacies are starting to explore.

One of these is the dosette box, an easily recyclable solution. A dosette box is divided into days of the week, with compartments for morning, noon, evening, and night. They are ideal for patients taking several different types of medication.

PrimeCarers, for instance, provide detailed information on who qualifies for a dosette box.

Smart pill dispensers are another emerging trend. These electronic devices remind the patient when a dose is due and dispense the correct dose at the required time. Some even can alert a carer, family member, or healthcare provider if a dose is missed.

The Future of Blister Packs

So, are blister packs being phased out? Yes and no. While there is a gradual movement towards more eco-friendly and innovative medication management methods, the traditional blister pack still serves a critical role, particularly for some patient groups.

Decisions regarding medication management should always be made in tandem with patient needs, risks and healthcare provider advice.

Whether you lean towards the theoretical simplicity of blister packs or the eco-conscious and modern option of the dosette box or smart pill dispensers, the key is to find a method that helps maintain medication adherence and support patient health as effectively and efficiently as possible.

PrimeCarers can help support these decisions by matching private home carers with clients for the best possible patient care. This combination of professional advice and personal care can guide patients towards a medication management method that suits their needs and circumstances best.

In conclusion, while using blister packs may change, they are not being completely phased out. Patient care and medication management will continue to evolve in response to developing technology, environmental concerns, patient needs, and care provider recommendations. This evolution will inevitably lead to many options and foster medication packaging and delivery choices.