PCN Clinical Pharmacists

Clinical pharmacists work as part of the general practice team to improve value and outcomes from medicines and consult with and treat patients directly. This includes providing extra help to manage long-term conditions, advice for those on multiple medicines and better access to health checks. The role is pivotal to improving the quality of care and ensuring patient safety.

Clinical pharmacists have a Masters degree or equivalent in Pharmacy followed by a year’s professional training to become a registered member of the General Pharmaceutical Council. They also undertake further training to equip them for General Practice work. Our PCN clinical pharmacists will be Independent Prescribers or working towards this qualification and work as part of the wider practice team, under the supervision of a GP.

Clinical pharmacists play a leading role in ensuring that patients with chronic diseases get the maximum benefits from their medicines, reduce waste and promote selfcare as part of a shared decision making consultation.

Having clinical pharmacists in GP practices means that GPs can focus their skills where they are most needed, for example on diagnosing and treating patients with more complex conditions. This helps GPs to manage the demands on their time.