National Pharmacy Association Responds To Patients Association Pharmacy Report, UK

Main Category: Pharmacy / Pharmacist
Article Date: 19 Nov 2008 - 1:00 PDT

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The recently published Patients Association Pharmacy report highlights a number of areas where primary care could improve patients' experience through improved co-ordination between primary care providers.

The NPA has already recognised the importance of good communication between healthcare professionals indeed the NPA and BMA resource 'Improving communication between community pharmacy and general practice' is designed to help facilitate local dialogue between the two professional groups, helping to improve patient care.

The report recognises that pharmacy is an essential element in healthcare and has a vital role in reducing health inequalities. We would add that the community pharmacy network is a precious resource with a unique strength lies in a combination of: medicines expertise, trustworthiness, accessibility and a high street infrastructure that provides patients with a local source of face to face advice.

John Turk, NPA Chief Executive, commented: "Huge strides have been taken in improving the infrastructure of community pharmacy with the majority now able to offer private consultations in a confidential area. I am confident that community pharmacy is working with - and will continue to work with - government, local health authorities and the public in concerted effort to improve access to primary healthcare."

Source
Geraldine Clark
Press Manager
National Pharmacy Association Ltd
Mallinson House, 38-42 St Peter's St, St Albans AL1 3NP
http://www.npa.co.uk