About Course
The NHS Pharmacy First Service training course is designed to prepare pharmacy staff for effective delivery of this patient-focused service, which provides access to advice and treatment for minor illnesses directly from pharmacies. The course equips participants with the knowledge and skills to support patients, manage consultations, and deliver safe and effective care as part of the NHS initiative to relieve pressure on GP services.
This course is ideal for pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and other pharmacy staff looking to implement or enhance the Pharmacy First Service in their practice.
Course Objectives
By the end of the course, participants will:
- Understand the purpose and scope of the NHS Pharmacy First Service.
- Gain knowledge of common minor illnesses and appropriate treatments.
- Develop consultation and communication skills for effective patient interactions.
- Learn how to identify red flags and when to refer patients to other healthcare professionals.
- Understand documentation, record-keeping, and confidentiality requirements.
Course Content
1. Introduction to the NHS Pharmacy First Service
- Overview of the service and its role in primary care.
- Benefits of the service for patients, pharmacies, and the NHS.
- Eligibility criteria and patient groups served.
2. Common Minor Illnesses and Treatments
- Understanding symptoms and treatments for common conditions, including:
- Coughs and colds
- Sore throat
- Skin conditions (e.g., eczema, dermatitis, and rashes)
- Digestive issues (e.g., diarrhea, constipation, and heartburn)
- Pain relief for minor aches and injuries
- OTC (Over-The-Counter) medicines and their appropriate use.
3. Consultation and Communication Skills
- Conducting patient-centered consultations.
- Asking the right questions to gather relevant information.
- Providing clear advice and treatment recommendations.
- Managing challenging or sensitive conversations with patients.
4. Identifying Red Flags and Referrals
- Recognizing symptoms that require further medical attention.
- Establishing referral pathways to GPs, hospitals, or other healthcare providers.
- Supporting patients with appropriate advice when further care is needed.
5. Record-Keeping and Confidentiality
- Importance of accurate documentation for compliance and auditing.
- Understanding GDPR and confidentiality requirements in pharmacy services.
- Using NHS systems for effective data management.
6. Service Implementation and Management
- Steps for implementing the service in your pharmacy.
- Staff roles and responsibilities.
- Ensuring consistent service delivery and quality assurance.
Who Should Attend?
This course is suitable for:
- Pharmacists providing patient consultations under the Pharmacy First Service.
- Pharmacy technicians supporting the service delivery.
- Pharmacy assistants who engage with patients and offer OTC solutions.
- Pharmacy managers overseeing service implementation and compliance.
Course Duration
- Half-day course (3-4 hours): Focus on service fundamentals and practical skills.
- Full-day course (6-7 hours): Comprehensive training with case studies and role-playing scenarios.
Certification
Participants will receive a certificate of completion, demonstrating their readiness to deliver the NHS Pharmacy First Service in compliance with NHS guidelines.
Why Choose This Course?
- Practical Learning: Real-life scenarios and interactive role-playing.
- Expert Trainers: Delivered by experienced pharmacy professionals.
- Regulatory Compliance: Meets NHS standards for the Pharmacy First Service.
- Patient-Centered Focus: Enhance the quality of care provided to your community.
Additional Related Courses:
- Medication Administration Training – Ensuring safe and effective medication use.
- Minor Illness Training for Pharmacists – Deeper dive into diagnosing and treating minor conditions.
- Customer Service in Healthcare – Skills to enhance patient satisfaction and communication.
Next Steps
Enhance your pharmacy’s impact with the NHS Pharmacy First Service. Book this training today or contact us for tailored solutions to meet your team’s needs.