Mediplacements - Pharmacists 'want to take on extra services'

Pharmacists 'want to take on extra services'

Tuesday 16th September 2008

Many pharmacists are keen to take on additional services, despite concerns that some obstacles remain to this goal, MedicalNewsToday.com reported.

During an event entitled Thriving In The Service Era held earlier this month at the British Pharmaceutical conference, it emerged that pharmacists and pharmacy stakeholders are interested in improving quality, taking on additional clinical services, nurturing relationships with local NHS managers and GPs and balancing income.

Some 70 members of the National Pharmacy Association (NPA) were in attendance, as well as other pharmacy stakeholders, the news source reported.

"The turnout at our workshop indicates a continued appetite amongst community pharmacists for clinical roles", said John Turk, chief executive of the NPA.

However, he added that for a "world-class NHS" to develop, the Department of Health needs to do more to engage NHS commissioners and government policy related to the field of pharmacy.

Meanwhile, Pulse Today reported that some GPs are apprehensive about a new high-profile drug - Diclofenac - that is now available over the counter.

The drug, which is used to relieve headaches, cold, flu and period pain, will be available for purchase at pharmacies from next month, but some doctors feel these conditions may be better treated with drugs such as ibuprofen.
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