NPA tests new pharmacy support programme
Support from the National Pharmacy Association for innovative services will be expanded in the summer if a trial programme proves successful.
The Innovation Partnerships Programme, currently being piloted by a small
number of pharmacies, allows NPA members to receive support for local
service developments that could drive the role of community pharmacy
forward. The NPA is offering support, such as assistance with funding
applications or training, in return for a commitment from pharmacists
to evaluate their services and share their experiences. If the pilot
is successful, the NPA will invite applications for the 2008–09
programme in July.
Stephen Fishwick, head of external relations at the National Pharmacy
Association, commented: “Each service development presents different
challenges so, rather than offering a standard solution, we will sit
around the table with participating pharmacists and agree a bespoke package
of support, entirely tailored to their particular needs.”
For pharmacists gearing up to deliver a service, the NPA might help with
training, sources of funding and equipment, he explained, whereas for
schemes that are already established, the input might be quite different — perhaps
designing patient leaflets and marketing materials.
“The quid pro quo is that those receiving the support commit to
robust evaluation of the service and to sharing their learnings with
other NPA
members,” he said. “The NPA will facilitate this spread of
learning through events and other means.”
E-mail alerts Drug alerts and
news updates are now available by e-mail to National Pharmacy Association
members.
NPA members can sign up for e-mails notifying them about drug alerts, “no
cheaper stock obtainable” (NCSO) changes, NPA news and new NPA resources.
They are also now able to gain a free subscription to the www.eGuidelines.co.uk website.
Both
services can be activated via the NPA
members website |
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