A “comprehensive” programme of practical support for independent prescribing (IP) in community pharmacy has been released by the NPA, with “thousands” joining the register as independent prescribers this month.
The NPA said the programme is designed to give clinical confidence to both newly qualified prescribing pharmacists, as well as existing prescribers who are “yet to make full use of their skills”.
Community of practice
It said the IP programme is “the UK’s most comprehensive”, covering “training, operating procedures, clinical guidance and business support” provided “free to its thousands of pharmacy members and customers”.
“The training platform includes an option for independent prescribers to be part of a community of practice, sharing operational insights and learning together,” the NPA said.
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It’s also offering a 20% discount on the prescribing element of its member indemnity premium for all prescribers who successfully complete the new course.
NPA chair Oliver Picard said: “I want all NPA members to take advantage of our highly practical support, helping them to launch, deliver and grow prescribing in community pharmacy – wherever they are on their prescribing journey.”
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It comes after the Pharmacists’ Defence Association called earlier this month for the workforce to be “properly supported” to safely deliver on community pharmacy prescribing.
And it follows NHS England opening a tender last month for a £360,000 contract to provide further clinical training for pharmacy technicians.
You can access the IP support programme here.
