RPS responds to Budget Statement

Commenting on today’s Budget Statement and a proposed ‘NHS Productivity Plan’, RPS England Chair Tase Oputu said:

“Alongside a welcome focus on universal electronic patient records and transfers of care, the proposed ‘NHS Productivity Plan’ must accelerate the adoption of electronic prescribing in hospitals.

“The roll-out of Pharmacy First has also shown just how important it is for pharmacists to be able to update a clinical record wherever they work and it is vital this is achieved as soon as possible.

“Efforts to reduce the time frontline workers spend on administrative tasks should consider steps to address the increasing amount of time that pharmacists and GPs spend managing medicines shortages.

“With continued pressures on teams, I would urge the Government and NHS to provide greater clarity on the next steps for the NHS Long-Term Workforce plan and how it will support recruitment and retention.

“This should include enabling pharmacy students to access the Learning Support Fund alongside other health professions.”

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