A message from Fiona Lowe, Chief Officer

Hello everyone,

I wanted to take a moment to reflect on our recent services evening. It was a great success, and if you happened to miss it, don’t worry; you can find a recording of the event here and you can download the slide deck here. 

One key takeaway from the evening is the increasing importance of building close relationships, not only with our patients but also with our stakeholders and colleagues. In this evolving landscape, effective communication is paramount. Furthermore, the accuracy of the information we provide is crucial.

I’d like to emphasize the importance of maintaining accurate information on various platforms, including your own website, the NHS UK website, and the Directory of Services (DoS). Ensuring that your opening hours and the services you offer are up-to-date is vital. When signing up for services, it’s essential to commit to delivering them. If circumstances change and you can no longer provide a particular service, be sure to deregister promptly. If it’s a temporary pause, update your DoS entry accordingly, and don’t forget to change it back once you’re ready to resume. The DoS plays a crucial role in informing other IT systems for patient referrals and will soon link to the NHS App, allowing patients to search for services. Thus, the accuracy of your information is key.

Moreover, the landscape of services is evolving to include the participation of team members other than pharmacists. This may require a revaluation of your team’s skill mix and training requirements. Fortunately, there are funded training opportunities available. Trainee Technicians and Trainee Pharmacists can access training, and there are advanced skills training programs for Technicians, an IP course for Pharmacists, and support with DPP for newly qualified pharmacists. If you’re unsure about the training options available to you, please don’t hesitate to ask; we’re here to help and direct you to what’s on offer.

In conclusion, our services evening highlighted the importance of communication, accuracy of information, and adapting to evolving roles within the pharmacy team. As the healthcare landscape continues to change, staying informed and proactive is key to providing excellent patient care.

Fiona Lowe
Chief Officer