Page 8 - P4403.59-V49_Numark Magazine March 24 PRINT

Contraception Service in England:

The Integral Role of Pharmacies

Last year marked a pivotal moment for the pharmacy sector
with the publication of the 'Delivery plan for recovering access
to primary care’ which set out the introduction of the Pharmacy
First scheme and the expansion of both the Hypertension case
finding service and Pharmacy Contraception service.

The Tier 1 service launched on 24 April 2023. The extended service which
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now includes Tier 2 launched 1 December 2023.
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This announcement underscores the government's commitment to
transforming pharmacies into service-led professions, where pharmacists
employ their clinical expertise to the fullest.

Among the pivotal services emerging, is the initiation of oral
contraception treatment which is a testament to the growing integration
of pharmacies into primary care. Below delves into the significance of this
service, highlighting why pharmacies should advocate for and deliver it.

Integrated Pathways: Pharmacy meets Primary Care

The introduction of the expanded Contraception Service into the
Pharmacy Services offering signifies a transformative shift. By aligning
community pharmacies with primary care, this integration enhances the
accessibility of General Practitioners (GPs) and sexual health clinics. More
than just sharing responsibilities, it fosters a collaborative care model.
With increased funding into pharmacy, the potential for enhanced patient
care and service delivery becomes profound, reflecting a harmonious
synergy between pharmacists and primary care providers.

Addressing health inequalities
A striking feature of the expanded Contraception Service lies in
its capacity to mitigate health disparities. By expanding access to
care, especially among marginalised and underserved communities,
pharmacies play a pivotal role in bridging existing healthcare gaps.

As pharmacies become more accessible, they serve as beacons of
inclusivity, championing health equity across diverse communities.

Leveraging the pharmacy team's expertise

The expanded Contraception Service extends beyond the pharmacist's
domain, leveraging the expertise of the broader pharmacy team. From
blood pressure measurements to weight, height, and BMI assessments,
team members play a pivotal role in facilitating comprehensive care.
By delegating specific tasks, pharmacists can concentrate on Patient
Group Directions (PGD) and other clinical aspects, ensuring streamlined
service delivery without compromising quality.

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