‘Fully funded’ workshops to underpin IP training in Wales
A “comprehensive learning programme” to help Welsh pharmacists deliver the pharmacy independent prescribing service (PIPS) “with confidence” has been announced.
The Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) told C+D today (April 9) that it has partnered with Health Education and Improvement Wales (HEIW) to equip pharmacists “with the essential knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to provide excellent patient care”.
The independent prescibing (IP) training will be delivered in-person “as six separate two-hour workshops incorporating presentations, knowledge quizzes, group activities, case study discussions, and Q&A sessions”, it said.
It added that the training will be offered every other month over the course of a year.
“The programme is fully funded by HEIW,” it told C+D.
It remains unclear how many places are available.
“Delighted”
RPS director for Wales Elen Jones said she was “delighted to welcome this collaboration with HEIW”.
“I’m particularly pleased to acknowledge the invaluable contribution of prescribing pharmacists in Wales….which has ensured [the programme’s] relevance and effectiveness,” she added.
“The programme's focus on common conditions and minor ailments aligns perfectly with the everyday challenges faced by pharmacists in their practice,” she said.
HEIW pharmacy dean Margaret Allan added that “through our collaboration with the RPS on this series of events…we hope to improve confidence in prescribing and equity of access to the provision of the PIPS across Wales.”
Last month, Community Pharmacy Wales (CPW) revealed that it was “not possible” to conclude Welsh contract negotiations before April.
In November, the Welsh government announced the launch of the first electronic prescription service (EPS) in Wales.