大学受験対策｜英語 長文読解問題47 難易度：★★☆☆☆

In many countries, community pharmacists play an important role in the healthcare system. They are not only responsible for giving people the right medicine but also for helping patients understand how to use it safely and correctly. Unlike hospital pharmacists who work inside medical centers, community pharmacists work in local drugstores, where people can easily visit them without an appointment.

Community pharmacists are often the first healthcare professionals that people talk to when they feel unwell. For example, if someone has a headache or a cold, they may ask the pharmacist for advice before going to a doctor. Pharmacists can recommend over-the-counter medicine or suggest visiting a clinic if necessary.

Another important role of community pharmacists is to educate people about their health. They often give advice on how to manage chronic diseases such as diabetes or high blood pressure. They also help people understand the possible side effects of the medicines they take. In some areas, pharmacists provide services such as vaccinations or health checks. This helps reduce the pressure on hospitals and clinics.

Community pharmacists also work closely with doctors and nurses. They may contact a doctor if there is a problem with a prescription, such as a dangerous combination of drugs. Their job requires strong communication skills, up-to-date medical knowledge, and a desire to support their local community.

As the population ages and more people need regular medicine, the role of the community pharmacist continues to grow. In the future, they will become even more important in keeping people healthy and providing care close to home.

Q1. Why do many people choose to visit a community pharmacist before seeing a doctor?

1. They need hospital tests before seeing any medicine.
2. Pharmacists sell only herbal supplements, not real medicines.
3. Pharmacists offer quick advice without requiring appointments.
4. Pharmacies have free parking but doctors’ clinics do not.

Q2. What is one responsibility of community pharmacists described in the text?

1. They organize weekly fitness classes for senior citizens.
2. They run laboratory tests for every prescription themselves.
3. They alert doctors about unsafe prescription drug combinations.
4. They design hospital buildings for improved patient safety.

Q3. Which of the following statements is NOT true about community pharmacists according to the passage?

1. Community pharmacists mainly create new drugs in laboratories.
2. Their importance grows as the population becomes older.
3. They explain safe medicine usage to their customers.
4. They advise patients about managing chronic health conditions.