Pharmacist access to records is the key to even better patient care

The Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) in Scotland has called on the Scottish Government to give all pharmacists read and write access to patient records.

Chair of the RPS in Scotland, Jonathan Burton, said: “World Pharmacists Day is an opportunity to celebrate the vital role of pharmacists at the forefront of healthcare.  Pharmacists across Scotland are already providing high-quality patient care, but the service could be even better if all pharmacists had access to the patient record."

Most community pharmacists do not have access to even basic information, despite performing an increasing role in providing NHS services both in and out of hours. Mr Burton continued: "It’s time the Scottish Government enabled all pharmacists to access patient health records so that, with patient consent and in appropriate circumstances, they have all the information they require to provide the safest and highest quality of care for patients in a timely and accessible manner.’’

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Source: Royal Pharmaceutical Society, 25 September 2019