Pharmacy Daily | Pharmacist advice trusted

AUSTRALIANS turn to specialist healthcare professionals for trusted advice about their or their family's wellbeing, with doctors and pharmacists coming out on top in a new Reader's Digest survey.

The primary reasons for trusting pharmacists and doctors were their training, education and experience, the respondents said.

The annual study also highlights brands, with Blackmores taking out the Most Trusted Vitamins and Supplements Brand in Australia category for the ninth year running.

Blackmores md for Australia & New Zealand Dave Fenlon said it was an honour that Australians had again placed their trust in Blackmores as part of the Reader's Digest annual award.

"Blackmores is committed to earning our consumers' trust by maintaining our leading quality standards, investing in research and offering expert advisory services," said Fenlon.

"We believe that's why Australians have entrusted us with their health and wellbeing for years," he added.

Blackmores also commissioned research by Lonergan Research revealing Australians rank trust in health and wellbeing (ranked number 1) above all other key aspects of their lives, including personal relationships (at position 2) and finances (3).

Of Gen Y participants, 40% said they turn to the internet for health advice, double their Baby Boomer counterparts, while Gen Y are the most likely to turn to online peer-to-peer sources, blogs or social media for advice when seeking answers or making decisions about their own, or their families' health and wellbeing.

While the GP and pharmacist remain trusted advisors, Fenlon said he was also encouraged by the opportunity that digital platforms provide to encourage and motivate people about their health.

He highlighted the free Blackmores Naturopathic Advisory Service where consumers can speak to a range of qualified naturopaths, including a lactation consultant.