TUESDAY, 21 APRIL, 2020

Photograph attached: Members of the pharmacy team at the Ninewells COVID Assessment Unit

COVID-19: NHS Tayside pharmacy service rising to the challenge

Pharmacy teams across NHS Tayside have adapted to meet the changing needs of patients and services during the COVID-19 outbreak.

A group of 10 pharmacists and pharmacist independent prescribers, from backgrounds such as medicine, infectious diseases, specialist services, surgery and critical care, have come together to provide services for patients in COVID-19 wards and critical care areas.

Clinical pharmacy teams are working extended hours over seven days to ensure that patients are able to access the drugs they need and additional measures have been put in place to manage any potential medicines shortages which may arise due to an increase in demand.

Just as importantly, teams across NHS Tayside have continued to provide business as usual services to patients in medicine, frailty, surgery, mental health, critical care, specialist services, and women, children & families services to ensure patients receive the right medicines at the right time.

Pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, support workers, procurement and administration staff within the medicines supply chain have worked relentlessly to manage stock effectively and allow patients to receive timely and accurate supplies of medicines at discharge.

Preparation of chemotherapy and intravenous nutrition has also continued as usual with more staff being trained and revalidated in this area.

Director of Pharmacy David Coulson said, “The 297-strong Tayside pharmacy service has adapted to new and different roles within our service.

“The high levels of motivation, flexibility and professionalism demonstrated by all members of the pharmacy team have supported a positive response to uniquely challenging situations. Their commitment to providing first class patient care is a credit to each and every member of our team.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank not only our pharmacy team but also those colleagues delivering care through the 92 community pharmacies across Tayside.”

Contact:

Louise Wilson

NHS Tayside Communications

(01382) 740718