Wed Sep 25 05:54:04 UTC 2024: ## North West Pharmacists Praised for Delivering Almost Half a Million Consultations
**Manchester, UK -** Ahead of World Pharmacists Day on September 25th, the NHS’s leading pharmacist in the North West has praised the “tireless” work of the profession, highlighting the delivery of almost half a million patient consultations in the region since the start of the year.
The International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) celebrates World Pharmacists Day annually, aiming to raise awareness of the crucial role pharmacists play in global health. In the North West, this impact is evident in the impressive service delivery figures. Pharmacies have continued to enhance accessibility and quality of healthcare through a range of services, including:
* **Pharmacy First:** Launched in January 2024, this service enables community pharmacies to manage seven common conditions, such as earache and urinary tract infections, releasing GP appointments for more urgent needs.
* **Urgent medicine supply, minor illness support, and treatment across various clinical pathways.**
Since the launch of Pharmacy First, North West pharmacies have delivered 456,067 consultations.
“Pharmacists in the North West are integral to the NHS,” stated Karen O’Brien, Regional Chief Pharmacist at NHS England – North West. “They are ensuring quality patient care is delivered at every level, from routine consultations to urgent referrals. Their work is essential to improving the overall health of our North West communities.”
Dr Paula Cowan, GP and Medical Director for Primary Care at NHS England – North West, emphasized the importance of pharmacists as part of the primary care system, working alongside GP practices, optometrists, and dentists to provide comprehensive care. “This partnership ensures patients receive the right care at the right time, while also relieving pressure on other parts of the healthcare system,” she stated.
The NHS encourages people to visit their local pharmacy for a wide range of services, from managing conditions at home to obtaining advice for coughs, colds, and other health concerns. Pharmacists are readily available to provide essential services like blood pressure checks, contraceptive support, and urgent medicine supplies. They are also central figures in multidisciplinary teams within GP practices, hospitals, and community care settings.
As healthcare continues to evolve, pharmacists will remain at the forefront of primary and community care delivery, working with other healthcare professionals in the region to improve health outcomes and overall patient experience.
For more information about NHS pharmacies and the services they provide, please visit nhs.uk/nhs-services/pharmacies/.
First Piper 