As healthcare systems face increasing demand, the importance of early intervention and accessible care has never been more critical. The Pharmacy First initiative, launched in January 2024, offers a ground-breaking solution by empowering local pharmacies to manage seven common conditions, reducing the need for specialist care and alleviating pressure on GP surgeries and emergency services. This shift not only enhances patient care but also strengthens the role of pharmacies as key healthcare providers within the community.
Introducing our Pharmacy First E-Learning Course
To support healthcare professionals in delivering this NHS service, we’ve developed a NEW Pharmacy First E-learning Course. Designed to build the essential skills and knowledge needed for managing minor ailments, this course offers a structured learning experience aligned with national standards. By completing this course, pharmacy professionals will be better equipped to confidently and safely treat common conditions, ensuring high-quality care for patients.
What Will You Learn In Our Pharmacy First E-learning Course?
1. Understanding the Pharmacy First Initiative
Participants will gain insight into the goals and scope of Pharmacy First, including its role in reducing pressure on primary and emergency care services by offering convenient, community-based care options.
2. Effective Assessment and Treatment Approaches
A core part of the course involves familiarising professionals with the seven specific conditions covered by Pharmacy First: sinusitis, sore throats, infected insect bites, impetigo, shingles, uncomplicated UTIs, and ear infections. Through understanding symptom assessment, differential diagnosis, and treatment selection, participants will learn how to deliver safe, effective care tailored to each condition. Additionally, the course looks into the use of prescription-only medicines and over the counter medications ensuring that professionals understand the best course of action based on each case.
3. Clinical Decision-Making with Patient Group Directions (PGDs)
Patient Group Directions (PGDs) are a central feature of the Pharmacy First framework, enabling pharmacy staff to supply and administer specific medicines without requiring a visit to their GP. The course provides guidance on applying PGDs, interpreting inclusion and exclusion criteria, and understanding red flags and when and how to escalate cases for further medical intervention.
4. Safety Netting and Patient Education
Ensuring patients know when to seek further care if symptoms persist is key to promoting safety. The course includes safety netting techniques, teaching participants how to communicate potential warning signs and guide patients on managing their health through self-care where possible. This section supports responsible care management and empowers patients to take an active role in their health.
Why Take Our Pharmacy First E-Learning Course?
Our Pharmacy First E-learning Training Course provides healthcare professionals with a framework to manage these common conditions efficiently and confidently. By completing this course, you will be prepared to deliver high-quality, evidence-based care in line with NHS Pharmacy First protocols. Our course is designed with flexibility, interactivity, and real-world application in mind. The key benefits include:
- Stay Updated with NHS Protocols: Participants will be able to stay current with NHS guidelines and PGDs, ensuring their care aligns with national standards.
- Flexible Learning Options: As an E-learning course it allows professionals to study at their own pace, making it easy to fit learning into busy schedules.
- 4.5 Hours of CPD: The course provides 4.5 hours of Continuing Professional Development (CPD), contributing to ongoing professional education requirements and supporting career growth.
Real-World Application and Practical Skills
A standout feature of the Pharmacy First E-learning Course is its emphasis on practical, real-world application. Through case studies and clinical scenarios the course reinforces the knowledge and skills needed to manage these common conditions effectively within the community setting.
Interactive content such as quizzes and scenario-based activities deepen understanding and prepare participants to approach patient cases confidently. These elements develop essential clinical decision-making skills that enable professionals to build the confidence to handle patient cases with ease.
Enrol Today and Lead the Way in Modern Pharmacy Practice!
Our Pharmacy First E-learning Course is designed to provide healthcare professionals with practical skills that can be applied immediately in practice. Pharmacy First is helping to shape the future of healthcare delivery, and this training equips you with the tools needed to support this important initiative.
Start the course today and gain the knowledge to confidently deliver Pharmacy First services, improving patient outcomes and supporting a more efficient healthcare system.
Pharmacy First
Our Pharmacy First training equips you to confidently deliver NHS care. Learn to manage minor ailments early and use the latest PGDs and protocols for safe, standardised care. This course provides 4.5 hours of CPD.
