Pharmacy type
Community
Pharmacy context
COVID-19
Relevant standards
- 4.1 - The pharmacy services provided are accessible to patients and the public
Why this is notable practice
The pharmacist is making sure that medicines are being delivered to vulnerable patients in rural outlying areas. She is doing this without impacting on the pharmacy’s already stretched delivery service. This is also providing her with an opportunity to counsel people and check on their general wellbeing.
How the pharmacy did this
The pharmacy had many vulnerable patients, and people shielding, who lived in remote areas at a distance from the pharmacy. The pharmacist was a horse rider and in her own time, she delivered medicines on horseback to people who were otherwise unable to obtain their medicines safely. On arrival at the person’s home she left the medicine on their doorstep and stood at a safe distance while they picked it up. She was then able to provide counselling, answer their questions and check on their wellbeing. She could also raise concerns with other healthcare or social organisations if necessary.
What difference this made to patients
People living in rural areas receive their medicines in a timely manner. They can also get advice and reassurance from the pharmacist. The pharmacist is also able to check-in with some of the more vulnerable members of the local community.
Highlighted standards
We have identified the standards most likely and least likely to be met in inspections, and highlighted examples of notable practice for each of these standards; to help everyone learn from others and to support continuous improvement: