Care Chemist, Stanmore

I recently had the opportunity to work a shift at Care Chemist in Stanmore, and it turned out to be an experience that combined a supportive work environment, interesting clinical insights, and the kind of small moments that make pharmacy shifts memorable.

The Team and Environment:
One of the highlights of Care Chemist is its well-structured team. The dispensary runs like a well-oiled machine, staffed with an ACT (Accuracy Checking Technician), a skilled dispenser, and a pharmacist. From the moment I stepped in, it was clear that everyone knew their role, which made the shift efficient and enjoyable. The manager, Zain, was not only approachable but genuinely supportive. He’s one of those people who can lighten the mood with a well-timed joke while still keeping the team focused and productive. You really feel like you’re working with people, not just around them.

The front of the pharmacy is well-stocked with an impressive selection of OTC products, perfumes, and fragrances. It’s the kind of place where patients can find both their essentials and a few luxuries, which adds a nice dimension to the business.

Learning Point: Omeprazole and Clopidogrel
One clinical learning point really stood out during this shift, and it’s a great example of how pharmacy work bridges the gap between theory and practice.

While checking prescriptions, I noticed a patient had been prescribed omeprazole alongside clopidogrel. If you’ve studied pharmacology, you’ll know that omeprazole can inhibit the activation of clopidogrel by interfering with the CYP2C19 enzyme, potentially reducing its effectiveness. This was something we’d been explicitly warned against during placements, where the guidance was clear: use lansoprazole as the preferred PPI when prescribing alongside clopidogrel.

What made this case interesting, however, was that the patient had experienced side effects with lansoprazole. This nuance reminded me that guidelines are important, but real-world prescribing often involves balancing risks, benefits, and patient-specific factors. It was a good opportunity to revisit the practical considerations for prescribing and reminded me how important it is to approach situations with an open mind.

It’s also a nice reminder of why pharmacy professionals play such a key role in patient safety—catching these kinds of potential interactions, discussing them with the prescriber, and ensuring patients get the safest and most effective treatment.

Technology and Payment Systems:
Care Chemist runs on ProScript PMR, a reliable and user-friendly system that keeps things moving smoothly. One small but appreciated detail is that they accept AmEx payments, which can be a huge plus for patients and customers who like the added flexibility.

Final Thoughts:
Overall, Care Chemist in Stanmore delivers on multiple fronts—an efficient team, a supportive work environment, and opportunities to learn and grow. Zain’s leadership sets a positive tone, and the pharmacy itself is well-organised and welcoming for both staff and patients.

Shifts like this remind me of how much value there is in locum work, not just for gaining experience but for those unexpected clinical pearls that stick with you. Whether you’re a pharmacy professional looking for a supportive place to work or a patient looking for excellent care, Care Chemist is a standout pharmacy in every way.