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RPS in Scotland gives evidence on the future of primary care

Today, (Tuesday 1 October), RPS in Scotland gave oral evidence to the Health and Sport Committee’s inquiry into the future of primary care in Scotland, alongside Community Pharmacy Scotland, the British Dental Association and Optometry Scotland. 

Jonathan Burton, Chair of the Scottish Pharmacy Board, emphasised the need for transformational change in order to achieve real integration between primary care services. He also flagged the need for full read and write access to the patient health record as well as highlighting the workforce pressures faced by pharmacists across Scotland. 

RPS in Scotland also submitted written evidence to the inquiry. Highlights from our submission include the following:

  • There is potential for community pharmacies to be public health and healthy living hubs, focusing on obesity management, lifestyle changes, social prescribing and vaccinations to increase capacity and uptake.
  • Community pharmacists, GP practice and secondary care colleagues need to work together more closely as well as with the wider multidisciplinary team.
  • Timely sharing of information between pharmacists in hospital, GP practice and community is essential and an important element of keeping people safe as they move with their medicines across health and social care systems.

The Committee is continuing its evidence gathering. You can also read our written evidence in full on the Scottish Parliament’s website. Video from Jonathan's evidence session is now also available below:

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