Published: 07/10/21

This Circular reminds community pharmacy contractors of the requirements of delivering the NHS Pharmacy First Scotland service, and asks contractors to ensure their pharmacists have signed the individual authorisation form for all of the PGDs relating to it in order to support NHS services over the coming winter period.

Background

NHS Circular PCA (P)(2020) 13, issued on 1 July 2020 enclosed the Health Board Additional Pharmaceutical Services (NHS Pharmacy First Scotland) (Scotland) Directions 2020 (“2020 Directions”) which came into force as of 29 July 2020, along with the service specification. It also enclosed Patient Group Directions (PGDs) for two common clinical conditions: UTIs and impetigo.

NHS Circular PCA (P)(2021) 7 issued on 24 May 2021 enclosed Patient Group Directions (PGDs) for two further common clinical conditions: shingles and skin infections, which were added to the service from 15 June 2021.

Detail

NHS Pharmacy First Scotland is a national consultation-based service which is expected to be provided in full by all community pharmacy contractors.

The service comprises 1) advice, treatment and referral for minor illnesses and 2) advice, treatment and referral for common clinical conditions via Patient Group Directions (PGDs). It should be noted that both elements of the service are mandatory.