The Royal Pharmaceutical Society wants all pharmacists in direct patient care roles to have access to independent prescriber training.

Greater use of pharmacist independent prescribers (PIPs) will increase access to medicines and support, so enhancing patient care, says the RPS in a new GB-wide policy on independent prescribing.  

Key recommendations in the policy document include: 

• New models of care should enable PIPs to routinely use their skills and knowledge to benefit patient care
• A clear pathway must be developed for pharmacists to become qualified independent prescribers.

RPS president Ash Soni said: “Pharmacists have a unique and in-depth education in all aspects of medicines and medicines use, essential to the safe monitoring, support and treatment of patients. PIPs must become part of the multidisciplinary team to improve health outcomes and help overcome some of the challenges in today’s NHS.

“Opportunities for PIPs are increasing due to innovations in the way health services are shaped and delivered. I can only see this trend increasing as we move towards more integrated care.  

“We want to see these recommendations implemented to drive quality improvements in the delivery of care. More PIPs would also increase capacity in the system and reduce demand on primary care and acute and emergency services.”