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Pharmacy in the future: implementing the NHS Plan

A programme for pharmacy in the National Health Service

The new NHS Plan was launched in July 2000. Based around 10 core principles, the Plan aims to bring about a high quality, patient-centred health service. This document sets out the role that pharmacy services will play in this new NHS. It outlines the Government's plans for giving patients better access to pharmacy services and for helping them to use medicines more effectively. The number of community pharmacies will increase, out of hours coverage will be improved and more use will be made of electronic prescribing. Services will be restructured to meet the needs of patients and to integrate more closely with other local services. Prescribing rights are to be extended to include suitably qualified pharmacists. New arrangements will be put in place for training and accreditation. Clinical governance and a new system of professional regulation will ensure quality and accountability in pharmacy services. The document concludes that this programme of change presents a challenge for pharmacy, but suggests its implementation will bring great benefits for patients and pharmacies.

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