Turf war? Woolies' health checks fuss not just about patients

Abstract

When supermarket chain Woolworths announced plans to offer in-store “health checks” earlier this week, health groups came out in force to criticise the move. But scratch the surface and it’s apparent that the criticisms aren’t just about protecting the public. The checks, which have been pitched by Woolworths as a service for their customers, will see final year pharmacy students, graduating pharmacists, and nurses measuring blood pressure and cholesterol, among other things. Professional health groups, the Pharmacy Guild and the Australian Medical Association (AMA) have reacted negatively. AMA president Brian Owler has described the proposal as: a dangerous idea that should be stopped before it gets off the ground. And the Pharmacy Guild has argued Woolworths is attempting to: hoodwink consumers into believing they can get professional pharmacist advice and products from a supermarket. Cause for concern?