19/03/2020
At Priceline Pharmacy we exist to look after the medicinal, health and beauty needs of customers in our local communities. The health and wellbeing of our customers and team members is therefore at the forefront of everything we do. With the outbreak of COVID-19, we have made some changes to how we operate to ensure we can continue to provide critical services to our communities.
In store services
Our 1400 pharmacists will continue to be available to provide advice to customers, however, physical contact will be reduced and any non-essential services will cease in the short term. Key services such as Flu vaccinations will continue to be available across the store network. For further advice and to book in for your flu shot, please click here. The vaccine is available in many states now and will be available across all states from Wednesday 18th March.
We have ceased in store beauty services including ear piercing. Our 650 trained Beauty Advisors will of course continue to be available in store to assist customers with excellent advice. For current bookings, the store will be in contact to discuss.
Additional hygiene precautions
Our stores have strict hygiene practices that are adhered to everyday, however, we have put in place additional steps to keep team members and customers safe. These include the removal of all product testers, increasing the frequency of hand sanitisation and cleaning of key areas within the store including the pharmacy, Health Stations, checkouts and pin pads.
Online store and Click & Collect services
Priceline Pharmacy’s Online store and Click & Collect services will continue to operate however, as expected, we are experiencing unprecedented demand. Despite our best efforts, please anticipate possible delays.
Scripts and other health and personal care Items
For those customers who have experienced difficultly in purchasing coronavirus related items in store, we apologise. We are working around the clock to maintain supply of product to our stores and customers. To effectively manage your prescriptions, we recommend you download and use the Priceline Pharmacy App. The App is the best way for you to pre-order your scripts so can avoid wait time in store, set refill reminders and keep track of your family’s health needs. The app is available for android & iOS (Apple). You will need activate the App in store with a Priceline team members assistance, if unable to do so please contact your local store directly and they will access over the phone.
Change of mind policy
Due to the unprecedented demand on coronavirus-related items, we have had to temporarily amend our change of mind policy. Effective immediately, change of mind exchanges or refunds are not be available. We are continuing to monitor the situation and will provide updates in store and online.
COVID-19 FAQs
What is COVID-19?
Coronavirus (COVID-19) is a respiratory illness caused by a new virus first reported in December 2019 in Wuhan City in China.. Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses that cause respiratory infections. These can range from the common cold to more serious diseases.Symptoms range from a mild flu-like symptoms to pneumonia.
While some people recover easily from the virus, others may get very sick, very quickly. There is evidence that the virus spreads from person to person and as such, it is important to practice good hygiene to help prevent infection.
What are the symptoms of COVID-19 (coronavirus)?
Symptoms can range from mild to severe, and may include:
Fever
Flu-like symptoms such as coughing, sore throat and fatigue
Shortness of breath
What should I do if I’m feeling unwell?
To seek medical help from a doctor or hospital, call ahead of time to book an appointment.
You will be asked to take precautions when you attend for treatment. Follow the instructions you are given.
If you believe you have contracted COVID-19 and you have a face mask wear it to protect others. Stay at least 1.5 metres away from other people. Cover your coughs or sneezes with your elbow.
Please inform your doctor of any symptoms, travel history and recent contact with someone who has confirmed COVID-19.
Your doctor will asses the need for you to be tested for COVID-19 based on their consolation with you.
Should I wear a face mask?
Contrary to popular belief, face masks will not protect you against becoming infected. The only people who should wear masks in relation to this virus are those who are unwell. The masks can help manage the spread of those whom have the virus.
How is COVID-19 treated?
Currently, there is no specific treatment for COVID-19, however most of the symptoms can be treated with proper medical care.
Vaccination
There is no vaccine for COVID-19, but there is one for the flu. You should get your flu shot when it’s available. Getting the flu and COVID-19 at the same time can make you very ill. Scientists from around the world are working on developing a vaccine. The World Health Organisation believes this may be available within 18 months. You can find further information on our Flu Vaccine Clinics here.
How can I protect myself and others from coronavirus?
There are two main ways to protect yourself and others; practicising good hygiene and social distancing.
Good hygiene includes:
Covering your coughs and sneezes with your elbow or a tissue
Disposing of tissues properly
Washing your hands often with soap and water, including before and after eating and after going to the toilet
Using alcohol-based hand sanitisers
Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces
If you are sick, avoiding contact with others and staying more than 1.5 metres away from people.
Social distancing
One way to slow the spread of the virus is social distancing, for example:
Staying at home when you are unwell
Avoiding large public gatherings if they’re not essential
Keeping a distance of 1.5 metres between you and other people whenever possible
Minimising physical contact, especially with people at higher risk such as older people and people with existing health conditions
For more information
please call the Australian Government’s Coronavirus Health Information Line on 1800 020 080. Alternatively, see further information at:
World Health Organization www.who.int
Australian Government Department of Health www.health.gov.au
Coronavirus (Covid-19) Health Information Line
Call this line if you are seeking information on novel coronavirus. The line operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
1800 020 080
Healthdirect Hotline
Call this number to speak to a registered nurse about your health concerns. The hotline is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
1800 022 222
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/
