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Letters to the Editor
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Pharmacy technicians
Technician led benzodiazapine withdrawal clinics — addressing concerns
From Miss H. Williams
I am writing in response to Andrew
Pothecary (PJ, 7 May, p542) regarding
his specific concerns over technicians working without pharmacist supervision
in respect of our technician-led
benzodiazepine withdrawal clinics (featured
in P&MM, distributed with PJ, 19 March).
I would like to clarify that in the initial instance all management plans
are discussed and agreed with our prescribing adviser before the patient
is seen. While working in the practice I am considered a member of the
practice team and as such have the backing and support of the GPs and
other practice staff. If a query arises that does not directly relate
to the benzodiazepine issue and is outside my knowledge, I have the option
of speaking to one of the clinical staff in the practice or telephoning
our prescribing adviser for advice. I can do this during the consultation
if necessary or can follow up with the patient at a later date. During
the initial consultation I always explain my role and capacity as a technician
and to date no patient has expressed concern with this.
The benzodiazepine withdrawal clinics have been well received by both
practices and patients and we think that we have maximised the skill
mix of our team.
Helen Williams
Prescribing Support Technician
Chesterfield, Derbyshire
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The
Pharmaceutical Journal