Lead Pharmacist

What are your main responsibilities in this role?  

I lead the delivery of the pharmacy and medicines optimisation elements of our local Primary Care Network (PCN) in North West Surrey.  

My role covers all things from minor ailments to long term conditions.  I provide clinical supervision of our PCN pharmacists and I teach nursing and medical staff to help improve the outcomes for our patients.  

How did you start out in your role?  

I have worked in primary care for over 15 years. After my initial pharmacy degree, I have completed further postgraduate qualifications in Clinical Pharmacy, Asthma and  Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).  I am also an Advanced Clinical Practitioner.   

What entry-level jobs should someone pursue if they are looking to follow a similar career trajectory?  

I would suggest a role as a pharmacist in the community, a hospital or general practice.   

What skills are most important in your job?  

You need strong communication skills to be able to interact with patients as well as colleagues on a daily basis.  Excellent clinical knowledge and attention to detail is also very important.  

What are the biggest challenges you face in your role?  

Continuous challenges, changes and transformation programmes from NHS England for primary care.  

What are the biggest rewards in your role?  

The success of my team and colleagues in the work they deliver, to very high quality, leads to i mproved patient outcomes.   

Top tips for others thinking about working as a pharmacist?  

The next few years will be a fundamental period for the pharmacy profession with significant changes in the clinical and digital field. Embrace the change.  

Your next step on your career pathway?  

Royal Pharmaceutical Society Consultant Credentialing which  will help me to understand the requirements to enter consultant-level pharmacy practice.