Discussing essential topics related to Clinical Pharmacists in General Practice

The IP Qualification and Beyond

The IP Qualification and BeyondAre you considering the IP Qualification as your next step?🎙In this episode, I explore this topic with Amina Ali, an experienced GP Pharmacist and independent prescriber who also guest lectures at King's College London, specializing in Older People, Frailty, and Polypharmacy. I was also joined by our co-host, Sarah Dekmak, another experienced IP pharmacist who has supported many pharmacists in their pursuit of gaining their IP qualification through our 'Find a DMP' service.Together, we discussed undertaking the IP Qualification, what the IP course doesn't equip you with, and how to start prescribing safely. We also delved into the level of responsibility that prescribing entails, and the importance of high-quality clinical supervision and prescribing within your scope.Additionally, Amina provides listeners with invaluable advice on the value you can add as a prescriber and how this correlates to earning potential. We also discussed the Advanced Practitioners Course and alternative courses for running minor illness clinics.This episode is a valuable resource for any pharmacist contemplating the IP qualification and eager to learn more.🎙Tune in now or watch the full episode here.Please note: Due to unforeseen technical issues, the sound quality and voices in this podcast may be affected.Inspired by this podcast, we have also put together two short articles:The first explores three of the most common misconceptions surrounding the IP Qualification. To read this, please click here.The second provides key tips and guidance for those aspiring to become an IP. To read this, please click here.

The New QOF Requirements

The New QOF Requirements🚨 "New QOF Indicators Unveiled: Navigate the Significant Changes Impacting Pharmacists in Primary Care!" 🚨 New QOF indicators were announced recently and there have been some significant changes that all pharmacists working in Primary care need to understand.In this episode, our host Ruhina Kassam, a senior clinical pharmacist and the Training and Development Lead at CPS, explores this critical topic with today's co-host, Sarah Dekmak. Sarah is the Operations Manager at CPS and a lead IP pharmacist. The two are also joined by today's guest Sarah O'Connor, a clinical pharmacist, and the Digital Transformation Lead for a PCN in Kent.Drawing upon their shared wealth of experience, together they shed light on the new QOF requirements, and how these changes may impact practices. Together they also share some invaluable tips and advice for pharmacists wishing to understand and prepare for these new requirements.🎙Tune in now to gain insights on this important topic. You can also watch the episode here.Inspired by this podcast, we have also put together a short article which highlights the key clinical changes. You can read this article here.

Pharmacy Technicians in Primary Care

Pharmacy Technicians in Primary CareIn this episode we explore the role of Pharmacy Technicians in Primary Care with Mandeep Bahia, a Pharmacy Technician with over 8 years of experience in the industry. Mandeep’s shares her experience of transitioning into the primary care sector and provides some invaluable advice for technicians seeking to do the same. Together, we also discuss the tasks technicians are responsible for, and we delve into the potential challenges they may face working in a PCN.This episode is an indispensable resource for any pharmacy technician seeking to explore the possibilities of a career in primary care.🎧Listen now or watch the episode here.Inspired by this episode, we have also put together an article which shares 5 key tips for Pharmacy technicians working in primary care. You can read this article here.

Pharmacist Competency & Maintaining Evidence of Competency

Pharmacist Competency and Maintaining Evidence of CompetencyYou may have heard of increasing cases of pharmacists being investigated by GPhC & CQC regulators as a result of questionable prescribing and non-prescribing practices that potentially pose a risk to patient safety. This has led to increased scrutiny by the regulators and highlighted the importance of pharmacist competency in prescribing practice to ensure pharmacists are practising within their scope.In this episode, our guest Siddiqur Rahman, a GP-based pharmacist prescriber with over 7 years of experience who is also a PDA representative, and Ruhina Kassam, discuss the importance of pharmacist competency with me and how to evaluate and develop it further. We also provide guidance on how to gather evidence of competency and explain the consequences of not being able to justify prescribing decisions.This episode is a must-listen for all pharmacists working in Primary Care looking to enhance their skills and maintain their professional registration.🎧Listen now to learn more! Alternatively, you can watch the episode here.💡Inspired by this podcast, we have also composed a short article which outlines 5 key steps that you can use to build and maintain evidence of your competency. You can read this article here.

What a Non-IP Pharmacist Can & Can't do in Primary Care?

What a Non-IP Pharmacist Can & Can’t do in Primary Care?In this episode, we discuss this topic with Anzeena Chowdhury, a Non-IP Pharmacist who has recently started a new role as a clinical pharmacist with CPS.We explore Anzeena’s journey transitioning into Primary Care and we discuss the advice she has for any pharmacists who are wishing to do the same. We also look closely at Anzeena’s innovative acronym C.L.I.N.I.C.A.L P.H.A.R.M, which provides a clear framework into what Non-IP Pharmacists can and can’t do within their role.🎙Tune in now to learn more, or watch the episode here.You can also view & download our free guidance document on the Non-IP Pharmacist role here.