The Pharmaceutical Journal
Vol 269 No 7221 p625
26 October 2002

Society summary

November conference will discuss PDGs’ future roles

The Royal Pharmaceutical Society’s fourth annual conference for pharmacy development groups (PDGs) and interested pharmacists will examine the future role of PDGs.

“Pharmacy development groups: moving on” is the title of the conference, to be held at the Society’s headquarters on Tuesday 19 November. As well as exploring PDGs’ present and future roles, the conference is designed to provide a networking opportunity for PDGs and to spread best practice.
Speakers will include Jane Newman (professional executive committee, Billericay, Brentwood and Wichford Primary Care Trust), Miriam Armstrong (chief executive, Pharmacy Healthcare Scheme), Mike King (head of professional development and local pharmaceutical committee services, Pharmaceutical Services Negotiating Committee) and Claire Jones (NHS service development, National Pharmaceutical Association).

Anne Adams, the Society’s professional development manager, said: “The conference will allow pharmacists to share information and ideas about the current role of PDGs in different geographical locations and between PDGs with different compositions. They will be able to discuss and suggest ways in which PDGs can develop a mature relationship with their local primary care organisation with the help of a primary care trust board and a professional executive committee member. They can also discuss requirements for support both now and in the future with representatives of various national organisations as well as develop an individual action plan.”

Further information about the conference is available from Yvonne Dennington (tel 020 7572 2208; e-mail ydennington@ rpsgb.org.uk).