Primary Care Networks (PCNs): Recent developments
Written by admin on Friday 28th June 2019
It's important for contractors to both understand what's happening with their developing PCNs as well as deciding to take charge of their own future and demand a seat around the table. Here we summarise recent developments and news....
Community Pharmacy has had a tough run over the past few years. Now there is another new group emerging that needs to be understood and influenced in order for pharmacy to move forward and retain its place within the primary care arena.
Below are provided some quick read articles from 'The Pharmacist'. I hope that these help set the scene for the current state of play with regard to PCNs:
1. Introduction - What are PCNs and what does it mean for community pharmacy?
2. How is pharmacy feeling toward PCNs?
3. Important to note that PCNs can be lead by GP pharmacists but not pharmacy contractors.... but inclusion of non-GP providers such as community pharmacists will become a requirement from 2020
- https://www.thepharmacist.co.uk/exclusive-pcns-can-be-led-by-gp-pharmacists
- https://www.thepharmacist.co.uk/non-gp-providers-like-pharmacists
4. Improving the community pharmacy / GP practice relationship will become even more vital as we go forward. Here two views are provided by Nick Hunter, Chief Officer at Nottinghamshire LPC and Sultan 'Sid' Dajani, Independent contractor in Hampshire
- https://www.thepharmacist.co.uk/how-to-improve-the-relationship-with-your-local-gp
- https://www.thepharmacist.co.uk/how-pharmacist-gp-relationships-can-change-for-the-better
5. As PCNs go live next week in July, there is both excitement and nervousness within community pharmacy. Change is coming, so it's important to ensure your local intelligence keeps abreast of developments in your area
Weekly News updates on PCNs
Primary care networks (PCNs) based on groups of general practices are set to become the “wellbeing hubs” of the future.
It is anticipated that the emerging networks will evolve to provide a range of clinical and non-clinical services with links to community services, the voluntary sector and social care. We’re a long way from that yet, but PCNs now have nominated leaders, funding and the backing of national bodies. If you work in general practice or one of the many organisations that may soon get involved with PCNs, you may be interested in a new weekly newsletter from PCC