The Health Minister has launched the Community Pharmacy
Palliative Care Network during a visit to McCoubrey's Chemist in
north Belfast.
The Palliative Care Network will operate in around 60 community
pharmacies across Northern Ireland and will ensure patients have
timely access to palliative care medicines and specialist advice.
It will lead to better patient care at the end of life.
Health Minister said: “The launch of the
Community Pharmacy Palliative Care Network marks an important
step in strengthening palliative care across Northern Ireland.
The Network, which was referenced in our Winter Preparedness
Plan, will ensure that patients and their families receive
timely, compassionate support at one of the most difficult times
in life.
“I want to acknowledge the dedication of our community
pharmacists, Community Pharmacy Northern Ireland (CPNI) and
officials in my Department, for working together to make this
service a reality.
“Your commitment and collaboration demonstrates the power of
partnership in delivering better care for our communities, as
well as helping to ease pressures on our hospitals during this
busy season.”
The Department of Health has collaborated with Community Pharmacy
NI (CPNI) to design and implement the new Community Pharmacy
Palliative Care Network.
Chief Executive of Community Pharmacy NI Gerard Greene said:
“Community Pharmacies play a vital role in supporting patients
and their families at what can be a very difficult end of life
stage.
“The launch of the Palliative Care Network provides a further
level of support ensuring timely access to medicines and
specialist advice will be available.”
The Network further highlights the Minister's commitment to
‘shift left', with more emphasis being placed on Community
Pharmacies in the new Neighbourhood Model of Care, as referenced
in the Reset Plan.
The Department of Health is also encouraging all pharmacies to
sign up to the Daffodil Standards, which is
a joint initiative between the Royal Pharmaceutical Society and
Marie Curie, supported by Pharmacy Forum NI, and Community
Pharmacy NI. They provide a framework for community pharmacies to
build on the high standard of care they already provide to
palliative care patients and their families.
