NHS New Services
NHS Community Pharmacy
Pharmacy Readiness Checklist
A step-by-step guide to help your pharmacy prepare for new NHS services — from staff training to patient communication.
1. Staff Training & Accreditation
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Identify which pharmacists need accreditation for new NHS consultation services
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Book relevant NHS training courses (e.g., Pharmacy First, blood pressure checks)
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Brief all counter staff on new services and their role in directing patients
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Keep records of all training completed by staff (required for NHS audit)
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Assign a lead pharmacist as the clinical governance point of contact
2. Patient Intake & Consent
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Update patient registration forms to include consent for new consultation services
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Create a simple triage checklist for walk-in consultations
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Ensure patients are clearly informed about what the service involves
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Have a written refusal/referral process for patients who do not qualify
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Ensure accessible intake process for elderly or non-English-speaking patients
3. Digital Records & Systems
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Confirm your pharmacy system is integrated with NHS Spine / Summary Care Record (SCR)
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Set up consultation outcome templates in your pharmacy software
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Ensure GDPR-compliant storage of all consultation records
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Test submission of NHS claim data for new services (PharmOutcomes or equivalent)
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Back up and secure all digital patient records in line with NHS standards
4. Patient Communication & Marketing
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Update your pharmacy website with all new NHS services available
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Send a newsletter or SMS alert to existing patients about new services
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Place NHS service posters and leaflets in-store
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Update your Google Business profile with new services and opening times
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Notify your local GP practices that you now offer these services
5. Appointments & Workflow
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Set up a booking system (online or phone) for consultation appointments
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Designate a private consultation room or space (required for most NHS services)
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Adjust staff rotas to ensure pharmacist availability for consultation slots
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Create a clear handover process between counter staff and consulting pharmacist
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Stock necessary supplies and equipment (e.g., BP monitors, test kits)
6. Compliance & Documentation
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Review and update your Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to include new services
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Ensure your clinical governance framework covers new service delivery
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Register with the NHS to formally provide each new service (via NHS BSA / NHSE portal)
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Check your indemnity insurance covers new service types
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Schedule a quarterly internal audit to review service quality and compliance
Need Help with Your Pharmacy's Digital Presence?
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