| Synopsis: |
This White Paper, "Pharmacy in England: Building on Strengths - Delivering the Future (Cm. 7341)", sets out a programme for future NHS pharmaceutical services in England. Divided into eight chapters, with two annexes, it covers the following areas: the background to the White Paper; the context of change, looking at the major health and social challenges that have prompted a review of pharmacy services; expanding access and choice through more help with medicines; more pharmacy services supporting healthy living and better care; communications and relationships and how these can be improved by highlighting the varied services and benefits offered by pharmacies and pharmacists; research and innovation in practice; the pharmacy profession; and, the current structure and contractual arrangements of the pharmacy system.The Government has set out a future vision for the pharmacy services in England, including a number of specific objectives, including: making pharmacies into 'healthy living centres', promoting health and helping people to take care of themselves; offering NHS treatment for minor ailments; providing specific support for people who are starting a new course of treatment; offering screening for those at risk of vascular disease; using new technologies to expand choice and improve care in hospitals and the community; and, becoming commissioned based on the range and quality of the services being delivered. |