IP Pathfinder

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The Independent Prescribing ‘Pathfinder’ Programme

NHS England is developing a programme of pilot sites, referred to as ‘pathfinder’ sites, across integrated care systems enabling a community pharmacist prescriber to support primary care clinical services. This presents a unique opportunity for community pharmacy to redesign current pathways and play an increasing role in delivering clinical services in primary care.

The scope for pathfinder sites will be determined by integrated care boards (ICBs), who will be urged to fully utilise the skills and capabilities of community pharmacists to build on clinical services already commissioned as advanced pharmaceutical services or add into locally commissioned services.

ICBs will work with community pharmacy teams to identify the pharmacies and local pharmacists that will deliver the service by becoming a pathfinder site, as well as other NHS bodies, local authorities, and community organisations involved in delivering joined up care.

In January 2023, NHS England opened an expression of interest process for integrated care systems to take part in the Pathfinder Programme. The pathfinder programme is now being developed with ICBs.

More information:
https://www.england.nhs.uk/primary-care/pharmacy/pharmacy-integration-fund/independent-prescribing/