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.
