NHS England Podcast NHS community pharmacy services – what are the benefits for practices and patients and how could they evolve?
Apr 16, 2025
Ruth Buchan, Mark Burden, and Claire Smeaton dive into the transformative role of community pharmacies in patient care. They discuss the innovative 'Pharmacy First' initiative, which allows patients to consult pharmacies for minor illnesses, reducing pressures on general practice. The panel emphasizes collaboration between pharmacies and GPs, the benefits of digital referrals, and the expanding clinical skills of pharmacists. They also explore creative initiatives, like Captain Blood Pressure, aimed at enhancing health awareness and community engagement.
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Pharmacy First Effectiveness
- Pharmacy First allows patients to have minor illnesses managed entirely within community pharmacy, reducing strain on general practice.
- Only about 10% of patients need escalation back to GP or urgent care, showing high effectiveness and patient satisfaction.
Leverage Reception Teams
- Reception teams play a vital role in referring appropriate patients to community pharmacy, improving patient flow.
- Ensure reception staff are trained and supported to direct patients to Pharmacy First to relieve pressure on GP appointments.
Pharmacist Skills Expansion
- Community pharmacists are increasingly equipped with clinical skills and confidence to manage more complex care episodes.
- All pharmacists qualifying by 2026 will be independent prescribers, enhancing pharmacy care capabilities.