Pharmacy type
Community
Pharmacy context
COVID-19
Relevant standards
- 1.1 - The risks associated with providing pharmacy services are identified and managed
- 4.1 - The pharmacy services provided are accessible to patients and the public
Why this is notable practice
The pharmacy is planning ahead for the upcoming flu vaccination service. It is reviewing its procedures to ensure that it can deliver the service safely and effectively while protecting team members and patients from the risk of coronavirus transmission.
How the pharmacy did this
The pharmacy had compiled a list of its most vulnerable patients and had asked them if they would like to receive a flu vaccination. The pharmacist had explained to people that when the service was ready, they would be contacted, asked for their consent and an initial assessment completed by phone or email. The team would then arrange an appointment time for the vaccination. By doing this the team had calculated approximately how many vaccinations would be carried out to ensure they had enough stock.
The pharmacy had planned appointments with enough time in between to allow the team to thoroughly clean the consultation room and prepare for the next one. The pharmacy had consulted general vaccination guidance issued by NHS England and the National Travel Health Network & Centre, (NaTHNaC) for carrying out vaccinations during a pandemic. It had also used the initial flu service guidance issued by the PSNC to inform its plan. It had prepared interim procedures on how to safely deliver the service which included the wearing of appropriate personal protective equipment for patients as well as staff. And handwashing and cleaning procedures.
The pharmacy planned to ensure its procedures would be subjected to regular review and update so that the service was being delivered as safely as possible. And in accordance with any future guidance when published.
What difference this made to patients
The pharmacy has planned measures for the upcoming flu vaccination service to support delivering it safely and effectively. It’s contact with people who are most vulnerable from both COVID-19 and the flu virus reassures people they will be able to access the service safely.
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: