Northern Pharmacies' Test and Treat service had a significant impact on the local community and individuals
Northern Pharmacies launched a successful social media campaign to raise awareness to the Test and Treat service, which resulted in an increase in demand.
To manage the demand for tests while maintaining safe practice and managing patients' expectations, the pharmacy extended its opening hours and secured adequate cover to allow pharmacists time to complete consultations and provide antibiotics to those who needed them.
Despite the success of the initiative, the team faced several challenges. The first was managing the demand for the tests while maintaining core services. The second challenge was securing antibiotic stock during a time of shortage, which was mitigated using Serious Shortage Protocols (SSPs) issued on the 9th and 15th of December.
The team also anticipated a challenge from parents who might not trust that their child did not need an antibiotic and wanted one "just in case," but this was addressed with patient education. Finally, the team faced a shortage of tests due to their demand, and their stock depleted quickly!
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The Test and Treat service had a significant impact on the local community and individuals.
Trained pharmacists held 150 consultations, of which 90% were negative for Strep A, meaning that in the majority of cases, the patient could meet with a trusted healthcare professional quickly and be assured that there was no need for an antibiotic.
Approximately 10% of tests were positive, and the pharmacy provided antibiotics via a Patient Group Direction (PGD) when necessary.
By preventing the issuance of 135 penicillin prescriptions, the initiative helped to reduce the potential for antibiotic resistance to develop and spread, thereby supporting both individual and population health.
The Test and Treat service was effective, safe, and successful, providing access to a trusted healthcare professional during a time of crisis when many faced difficulties seeing a GP or accessing out of hours or emergency services.
The service helped to reduce the inappropriate use of antibiotics, which is crucial in the fight against antibiotic resistance, a global health threat.
Moreover, the service provided patients with reassurance and access to healthcare, thereby improving the health and wellbeing of the individuals and communities they serve.
Congratulations to Northern Pharmacies and their commitment to health and wellbeing through their Test and Treat service.
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