Commenting on the news that more than 100,000 patients have had appointments with pharmacists as part of the Community Pharmacist Consultation Service (CPCS), Chair of the English Pharmacy Board Professor Claire Anderson said:
“It’s great to see the early data from the start of the CPCS, showing how using pharmacists’ clinical skills can help patients access treatment and support more quickly.
“The CPCS shows how pharmacy can play a vital role supporting GPs and urgent care. With the positive response from the public and policymakers, we’re looking forward to this service expanding to include referrals from other parts of the health service.
“It’s also important that pharmacists get the time and support they need to deliver a quality service for patients.
“Amid growing pressure on the NHS, it’s crucial the Government invests in pharmacy to help people stay healthy and out of hospital.”
Want to know more? English Pharmacy Board member Andre Yeung, a pioneer of the Digital Minor Illness Referral Service, offers his thoughts on how to make the CPCS a success.