The trial is part of the multiple’s existing collaboration with digital healthcare provider LIVI. It will test how patients can remotely access a Boots pharmacist via the LIVI app for a face-to-face chat about their medicines and for general advice.

It follows the pilot of an online GP service that was trialled in two Boots stores in October 2019 and allows patients to have a GP video consultation on a tablet.

The two companies are now working together to see how this could be extended to pharmacists, the multiple said. It aims to reduce pressure on the NHS by “ensuring that customers maintain simple and safe access to healthcare” while at home.

“Improving access”

Richard Bradley, director of pharmacy for Boots UK, said: “With millions of patients self-isolating at home – particularly the elderly or those with underlying health conditions – access to expert health advice without having to travel to a pharmacy or GP surgery is even more crucial.”

Juliet Bauer, UK managing director for LIVI, added: “With our NHS facing unprecedented pressure, we are pleased to be opening up access to pharmacists on our platform and offering more people digital healthcare opportunities.”