General Pharmaceutical Council launches new strategic plan
The General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) launched its new strategic plan at a UK Parliamentary event attended by the UK Pharmacy Minister today.
Chair of the APPG on Pharmacy, Steve Race MP, hosted the Parliamentary event, where Stephen Kinnock MP, Minister of State for Care, addressed attendees on the role of pharmacy in helping the health and social care system deliver high-quality care.
The Chair and Chief Executive of the GPhC introduced the GPhC’s new strategy for the next 5 years at the event, and led discussions on how the GPhC can work collaboratively with other organisations to empower pharmacists and pharmacy technicians to care for their patients and the public as integrated members of the health and care professional workforce.
The new strategic plan sets out how the GPhC will uphold safety, quality and public trust in pharmacy, and build on the progress that has already been made, by focusing on three strategic aims:
- empowering pharmacists and pharmacy technicians to provide trusted, safe and effective pharmacy care
- protecting those using pharmacy services by working collaboratively with healthcare regulators and other organisations; and
- building a skilled, agile and inclusive organisation to carry out our regulatory responsibilities.
Healthwatch England Chief Executive, Louise Ansari, who attended the event, had this to say:
“Pharmacy services are widely used, and we know how much people value their local pharmacy teams.
“So it is very welcome that this strategy is focused on the needs of patients and the public, to ensure teams will work in partnership to protect people and minimise the issues they can face.
“This strategy is particularly important as pharmacies play an increasing role as a first port of call for the public via Pharmacy First and other consultations, using the expertise of pharmacy staff and reducing burdens on GP practices.”
