The new Community Pharmacist Consultation Service and what it means

Yesterday was the start of the new NHS England Community Pharmacist Consultation Service, which allows patients with minor illnesses such as skin rashes or vaginal discharge to be referred to a pharmacy from NHS 111. It’s yet another step to encourage more patients to turn to pharmacy for their self-care. At Verve, this is a popular topic within our E45 and Balance Activ campaigns, where the role of the pharmacy team in assisting patients’ self-care is vital.

To learn more about the practical implications of the new service, we’ve invited in an old friend, Fin Mc Caul FRPharmS. Fin is a pharmacist and a regional representative of the PSNC. He came to talk to us about this new service and the wider theme of the new Community Pharmacy Contractual Framework and its aim to “expand and transform the role of community pharmacies, embedding them as the first port of call for minor illness and health advice in England” [Matt Hancock, Secretary of State].

From Fin’s talk one thing seems certain: with already very busy pharmacies about to get even busier, we – as marketers of the healthcare industry will face an even harder challenge to win the time and the attention of healthcare professionals. A challenge we are certainly ready to take!