I was asked to lead the ELHCP pharmacy call to action for care homes. With the support of my line manager we proposed a theoretical clinical model that could potentially deliver the required actions. We adapted the model into three versions as we realised quite quickly that variation across the STP with regards to resources etc would not work with one approach alone.
We changed the model on a daily basis depending on feedback that we received and so the clinical model was extremely fluid and flexible to change. The most important aspect was the approach we used to engage pharmacy leads across all sectors and gain their support, convincing them that this call to action was not just for primary care and needed everyone in the pharmacy world to step up and contribute whatever was possible during these unprecedented times to protect the most vulnerable members of our society during the COVID-19 pandemic. The response was unanimous and support was offered from all areas.
We engaged with local authorities to ensure communication was clear and they were involved throughout. The outcomes were slow at the onset however really started to take shape as weeks went on. We had named pharmacists for every care home across the STP, robust information support available and improved access to medicines especially end of life medicines via community pharmacies. We created care home pharmacists networks which meet weekly to share experiences, discuss patients and gain expert advice from specialist pharmacists within their fields of expertise. Training needs analysis has been carried out and is on going and webinars have been delivered to support and upskill pharmacists new to care homes and build their confidence in managing the residents in their homes.
