Improving efficacy and choice: NHS North Somerset Pharmacy Patient Group Directive (PGD) for Varenicline
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Author(s)
Fiona Ruth Miles
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| Presenter(s) |
Fiona Ruth Miles Health Improvement Development Manager, NHS North Somerset |
Abstract Background:
As the number of smokers reduces, those remaining smokers are more nicotine dependent and find it harder to quit. Therefore it is becoming increasingly important to ensure that the most effective services including pharmacotherapy are commissioned and compliant with NICE guidance. Varenicline was formerly only available via prescription at GP surgeries. NHS North Somerset was one of the first services in the South West to develop and implement a PGD for Varenicline.
Aim:
To increase the access to and choice of pharmacotherapy in line with NICE guidance.
Methods:
A PGD directive was developed to enable pharmacists to prescribe Varenicline in pharmacy settings. Approval was sought via NHS North Somerset Professional Executive Committee and commissioning group. A training pack and protocol was developed.
Results
The PGD was agreed and implemented in 2009. It was reviewed and amended in January 2011. A total of 33 pharmacists have been trained to deliver the PGD. It has resulted in a 100% increase in the numbers of clients using Varenicline; in 2008/9 358 clients were prescribed Varenicline (1) as compared to 725 by the end of Q3 2011.
Notes:
1 This figure includes Varenicline prescribed by GP’s
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Source of funding: N/A
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Declaration of interest: None
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