Public givenchance to speak out on medicines

Mark Branagan

EAST Riding patients who have trouble getting hold of medicines or getting help with problems such as smoking are to benefit for a shake-up aimed at plugging gaps in local pharmaceutical services.

A Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment (PNA) is under way to identify potential future improvements and developments in pharmaceutical services in the East Riding.

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Residents are being invited to put forward their views on the draft version of the new approach to dispensing medicines and filling prescriptions either at GP surgeries or chemists.

The strategy will also cover other vital services such at supporting vulnerable people, issuing advice on healthy living, and getting rid of unwanted medicines which can be a hazard around the home.

In addition, enhanced services can be commissioned locally according to the needs of the population. These can include, for example, screening services, stop smoking services, medication review services or a minor ailments scheme.

Graham Hill, NHS East Riding of Yorkshire Professional Development Pharmacist, underlined this was the chance for patients to have their say via a questionnaire.

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He said: “The PNA will help us determine practical, achievable ways in which providers of pharmaceutical services can help meet the needs of all our population and contribute to improving patient care. Please don’t miss this opportunity to let us know your views.”

The questionnaire can be downloaded at www.eastridingofyorkshire.nhs.uk.

The full PNA which will be published on or before February 1. The closing date for return of the questionnaire is October 1.

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