A report that would result in a national service framework for pharmaceutical care of the elderly had been written and was with ministers, Ms HILARY EDMONDSON (community pharmacist and pharmacy development group member) told the conference. She expected the framework to be published later in the year and was hopeful that pharmacists would be included. She was disappointed that the word pharmacist had not been included in previous frameworks but pointed out that there had nevertheless been areas in them where pharmacists had clearly been the most appropriate person to deal with the issue.
The framework provided pharmacists with another strategy and other opportunities for involvement. Waste management, hoarding of medicines at home, concerns about repeat medication and adverse drug reactions were the areas where pharmacists could provide the solutions.
Pharmacists needed to look in new directions if they wanted to get involved. Social services, charities, other organisations in the public or private sector and events such as afternoon groups for older people could open up opportunities and in some cases result in unlikely allies.