Andrew Lockhart-Mirams delivered a clear and comprehensive explaination on the important aspects for dispensing doctors in the upcoming pharmaceutical needs assesments. This was done from the guidance that has been released ahead of the publication of the regulations next month. There are some aspects that need to be addresssed and understood. Once a PNA has been written it will remain in place for about 3 yrs, will not be ammended and there is no process for appeal so it is important to get it right.

The pcts need to consult certain statutory bodies includidng the LMC. It is essential they have a clear understanding of the regulations and the areas that relate to DD’s. Some may need to be briefed. Your pct may be happy to consult with dispensing doctors direct, get in touch.

The concept of neighbourhood is essential to understand and the areas listed in the PNA may not correspond to your practice area. The more clarification there can be the better or a problem that relates to one area may appear to relate to your practice area and have a negative impact.

The process will look for deficiencies in the service so it is important to look for those now and try to correct them where possible before the consultation is over. The assessment will look at existing availability and the extent of services with particular attention being paid to any deficiencies.

Other aspects that will be considered are access and need. These can be met by Essential, Enhanced and Advanced services and need to be clearly stated

The main message from the presentation was the need to get involved with the process either via the pct or direct and ensure that the PNA is correctly written with no scope for misinterpretation as once it has been agreed it cannot be changed and there is no process for appeal.

Powerpoint presentation PNAs for DD .ppt

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