Scotland consults pharmacists on better use of skill mix
How to make better use of skill mix in pharmacy is the subject of a consultation published this week by the Scottish Executive.
The consultation follows a similar
publication by the Department of Health
in England last year (PJ, 18/25 December 2004, p873). The principles
underpinning the documents have been agreed by all four UK health departments.
However, each country is conducting its own consultation in the context
of the separate plans for developing pharmacy services (eg, “The
right medicine” in Scotland).
The Scottish document states that the aim is to allow greater choice
and flexibility in how pharmacists can meet their professional and legal
responsibilities, deliver a wider range of services and meet the training
needs of pharmacy staff.
“It is recognised that there is a need for more effective use of
the pharmacist workforce, particularly at a time when many community
pharmacists are
involved in developing innovative services locally and providing a wider
range of services. The new contractual framework for community pharmacy
in Scotland has the flexibility to respond to new services and standards
of provision,” the document says.
Views are sought on personal control, supervision and training and education,
for example, what training is needed for staff to take on responsibilities
such as supervision.
The consultation closes on 29 April. “Making the best use of the pharmacy workforce” is available online |
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