Coeliac disease testing arrives at Unichem and Life pharmacies

Green Cross Health is now making it possible for people to get screened for coeliac disease quickly and conveniently at their local Unichem or Life pharmacy.

Approximately one in 100 people in New Zealand suffers with coeliac disease - a permanent autoimmune disorder characterised by an intolerance to gluten. It can present at any age and as a result many people go undiagnosed. Many sufferers live with the symptoms for years without knowing that they have the disease.

Alison Van Wyk, Head of Professional Services for Green Cross Health, says the new screening test is available without appointment. “Your Pharmacist will take you through a questionnaire to ensure the test is right for you.”

The test is completed in around 10 minutes and with the consumer’s consent, notifications of the results are provided to their doctor.  Symptoms of coeliac disease are varied and nonspecific and can be similar to those of several other conditions, hence the reason that consumers need to seek medical advice.  

Unichem and Life pharmacists are healthcare professionals operating at the top of their scope of practice to provide quality care and advice to customers within their local communities across New Zealand.

“We have over 300 stores nationwide and we’re really proud to bring additional capabilities such as coeliac disease testing to our customer.  Put simply it means our pharmacists can have more comprehensive, relevant and convenient discussions with people about their health and wellbeing,” says Van Wyk.

As well as testing for coeliac disease, Unichem and Life pharmacists are also able to administer vaccinations that prevent against influenza, meningococcal disease, shingles and whooping cough. Appointments are not required and pharmacies offer a private consult area in almost all locations.

Green Cross Health has partnered with New Zealand Company, Smith Biomed Diagnostics, as the supplier of the coeliac disease screening test device, Simtomax®.

About Green Cross Health
Green Cross Health is a listed primary healthcare provider, delivering integrated healthcare solutions in communities the length and breadth of New Zealand. Representing around 310 community pharmacies and 44 medical centres, the organisation also provides specialist nursing services in the community and home health care services to more than 18,000 clients in their own homes.

About Smith Biomed
Smith BioMed (NZ) Ltd., with its sister company Smith BioMed Diagnostics is an established business, specialising as an importer / distributor in the Point.Of.Care Forensic and Medical Diagnostics supplies market.