NO question is too difficult for pharmacist Brad Butt when it comes to dealing with men needing help with their urological health.

Six years ago the Weston pharmacist founded the Canberra Men’s Health Downunder, a clinic service with a primary focus of supporting men who have had a prostatectomy, a procedure that can impact on men’s physical and mental health.

“We’re really passionate about being able to assist men talk about and tackle some of their health issues that might otherwise be kept under wraps,” Brad says.

“The initial consultation can be an hour or longer, which means men have enough time to get all their questions answered, and no question is too difficult.”

One of the key drivers to the success of the program is that men can access a pharmacist when needed on an ad-hoc basis, with or without their partners.

Brad says the Men’s Health Downunder program also offers counselling to patients on their prescribed medications, particularly when they are more specialised or when there have been issues previously.

“The initiative takes a holistic approach to men’s health care, as other issues like smoking cessation, weight loss, healthy eating, alcohol intake and physical activity can affect urological outcomes,” he says.

The initiative, which was recently named the ACT winner of the 2019 Men’s Health Awards, also helps tackle a range of other urological issues ranging from erectile dysfunction through to incontinence.

The program also works remotely with a range of other health professionals – including urologists, GPs, nurses, physiotherapists and counsellors – in an effort to bridge the gap that exists for many men between themselves, their doctors and allied health care practitioners.

Men’s Health Downunder is based at Cooleman Court Pharmacy in Weston, but also delivers services into regional NSW in Forbes, Orange and Wagga.

With prostate cancer affecting one in seven men before the age of 85, prostate cancer has to be a priority area within the men’s health space, says Brad.

“Beyond this, it’s estimated erectile dysfunction affects over one million men across the country with ramifications which can be wide reaching and quite disabling,” he says.

“There’s a huge need for not only more of these clinics but also greater knowledge, education and accessibility.”

Canberra Men’s Health Downunder, Cooleman Court Pharmacy, Weston, call 6288 1867 or email brad@menshealthdownunder.com.au