Continuity guidance issued in case of pandemic flu
Guidance on continuity planning for community pharmacy services during an influenza pandemic has been developed by the National Pharmacy Association, in conjunction with the Company Chemists' Association, the Royal Pharmaceutical Society and the Pharmaceutical Services Negotiating Committee.
A pandemic would be widespread and could last for several months — current
predictions are that between 15 and 20 per cent of the workforce might
be unavailable at its peak. Community pharmacy, as a major provider of
health care services, must be prepared, say the national pharmacy bodies.
The guidance advises pharmacists that they should try to maintain business
as usual with the emphasis on ensuring patient safety and the supply
of medicines for those with long-term conditions.
Pharmacists should also work with their primary care organisation to
ensure service continuity across the locality, they say.
Michelle Styles, head of information at the NPA, commented: “Developing
a service continuity plan will help you to act quickly when a pandemic
hits, also helping your business to maintain service levels. This resource
gives guidance on maintaining critical operations, stock and equipment
to minimise the impact of a pandemic
emergency.”
She added that, to ensure that a continuity plan will work, it is vital
to test it out beforehand and to participate in any primary care-led
exercises.
The resource will be available shortly in the members’ area of
the NPA website.
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