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The Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI) has welcomed the new research guidance published by NHS England for the integrated care systems. The guidance is said to reflect the benefits of delivering research, for patients, staff and healthcare system performance, including the economic benefits for the NHS. Jennifer Harris, ABPI's Director of Research Policy, said: "This guidance is clear on what good research practice looks like and it's great to see it out and available for the NHS to use. "A research-active NHS delivers huge value to patients, staff and the system itself. We hope that putting this guidance into action will help Integrated Care Systems realise the huge benefits that research can offer, and help make the UK once again a destination of choice for developing the medical breakthroughs people need."

Colour Me Pink Perfume is a fragrance that embodies the femininity, elegance, and grace of a woman. The perfume is designed to bring out the confidence in every lady, with a blend of sensual and floral notes that make it perfect for any occasion. From the office to a night out on the town, this perfume is sure to make a statement. The fragrance is composed of top notes of bergamot, orange, and apple, giving it a fruity and fresh scent. The heart notes of jasmine, rose, and lily of the valley add a touch of romance and femininity to the fragrance. Finally, the base notes of vanilla, musk, and amber create a warm and sensual finish. The scent is long-lasting and has excellent sillage, meaning it will linger in the air and leave a trail wherever you go. The bottle is beautifully designed, with a sleek and elegant shape that reflects the fragrance's sophistication.

he Healthcare Distribution Association (HDA) and the Pharmaceutical Services Negotiation Committee (PSNC) have urged the NHS England and the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) to issue urgent communications requesting that all those involved in medicines supply do not hoard, stockpile or over-prescribe Strep A antibiotics. In a statement HDA said that the sudden spike in demand for antibiotics used for the treatment of Strep A has meant that there is not enough of these medicines in the supply chain currently to meet this increased demand. As a result, wholesalers are working extremely hard with manufacturers to increase the supply of antibiotics. It added: "As regards pricing, the prices charged to pharmacies by HDA wholesale distributors will directly reflect the increase in prices wholesalers are having to pay for these medicines from manufacturers at the moment, in order to be able to continue supplying these medicines to pharmacies. This will be the case until supply and demand are more in sync."

As we take look back over the past year and reflect on what we have achieved, it's also important that we look ahead to new challenges and opportunities that may arise in 2023. We have seen remarkable innovation across the industry in 2022, from big break throughs in treatment and improvements to patient outcomes, to how the industry is working with big data and technology. But it's fair to say that these achievements came paired with just as many challenges including a continued talent shortage, hangovers from the pandemic, increasing pressures to innovate and ongoing macroeconomic challenges. As we head into 2023, I expect these existing challenges to continue alongside new ones, but I also anticipate more opportunities to present themselves. At Pharamanovia, we predict that the key trends set to catalyse the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries in 2023 include break through innovations, technology, big data, sustainability, ongoing policy changes and a shift in investment due to inflation. Utilising big data and tech Technology has been recognised as one of the industry's biggest tools for many years, and I don't expect to see the pace of how we use technology in healthcare and pharma to slow down any time soon. In 2023, I expect that we will see further automation in the way we work, with an increase in digital engagement and healthcare providers leveraging remote access further.

Choosing the right healthcare certification for your career goals should not be taken lightly. With so many certifications available today, it can feel overwhelming and confusing to decide which one is best suited to your individual needs. Whether you're looking for a promotion at work or want to switch careers, having the correct certification can make all the difference when reaching those goals. Thankfully, with some proper research and advice from experts in the field, you can find the perfect healthcare certification for your career goals - let's dive into how! CONSIDER YOUR CURRENT GOALS AND ASPIRATIONS When choosing a healthcare certification, it's important to consider your current goals and aspirations. Before diving into a program or course, reflect on what you want to get out of the experience - is it increased knowledge and skill set, better job prospects, and advancement opportunities? Even if you aren't currently sure about what type of career you want in healthcare, research different certifications and see which ones would bring you one step closer to achieving those goals. For example, medical coding certification is a must for anyone interested in pursuing a career in medical coding and billing. Think about the best investment of your time and energy, so you can reap the benefits later on down the line. No matter where you're starting from or where you hope to go with your career, there are certifications that provide valuable skills in all areas of healthcare.

Suffering a brain injury is no easy thing. The plurality of potential symptoms meets with the potential long-term effects to create a poor prognosis for many unfortunate enough to experience them. But new technological leaps could pave the way to a better quality of life. What is a Brain Injury? The above question might seem a simple one, with a simple answer. But brain injuries are by no means simple, and by no means simply defined. There are two major categories under which a brain injury can fall: hypoxic and traumatic. Of civil brain injury claims in the UK, traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are the most common - with 95% of claims revolving around some form of traumatic injury or incident. TBIs are brain injuries suffered as a result of a specific or direct injury. The brain is damaged through direct contact or the transfer of force. A direct strike to the head is in an assault or a serious fall might compromise the cranium, sending shockwaves of energy through the brain and potentially crushing the skull into the cranial cavity. Alternatively, a car accident or sudden stop might see the brain bashed against the occipital bone, causing internal trauma and intracranial hypertension. Hypoxic brain injuries refer specifically to injuries caused as a result of loss of blood or oxygen to the head. These injuries reflect birth injuries that might lead to cerebral palsy, or serious medical events that might alter the brain's response to stimuli. How are Brain Injuries Diagnosed and Treated? While the potential causes of a brain injury are plain to see, diagnosing a brain injury is not as straightforward. There are immediate symptoms that can indicate brain injury, such as the 'fencing response' which can indicate a severe rotational brain injury. Conscious patients might also exhibit difficulty speaking, remembering key pieces of information or responding to any stimuli.

In a significant uptick reflecting growing awareness and acceptance of mental health challenges among new and expectant mothers, NHS records reveal a striking surge in specialist support sought by over 57,000 new mothers over the past year. This figure represents a substantial 33 per cent increase compared to the 2022 data findings indicating a heightened demand for perinatal mental health services in England. Last year, the number of women accessing perinatal mental health services was 43,053 individuals. Specifically, between March 2023 and February 2024, a total of 57,170 women accessed these services, representing a significant rise from the 43,053 women who received support between March 2022 and February 2023. Contextually, this surge in demand is significant given that approximately 600,000 women give birth in England each year.

The Pharmacists' Defence Association (PDA) is bolstering its leadership team with the appointment of Jay Badenhorst as the Director of Pharmacy, a newly created position aimed at fortifying its commitment to advancing pharmacy practice. This move comes amidst a period of significant change and challenge for frontline pharmacists, prompting the independent trade union to enhance its influence in the evolving healthcare landscape. Mr. Badenhorst, who previously served Whitworth Chemists as the Managing Director and also has leveraged his extensive knowledge of the pharmacy practice and organisational leadership as the Vice Chair of the National Pharmacy Association, reasons his "commitment to being at the forefront of positive change within the pharmacy profession." Mr. Badenhorst expressed his enthusiasm stating: "I am delighted to be joining an organisation that has so much vision, ambition and drive at a time when pharmacists have so many opportunities to develop their roles for the benefit of patients." According to Mark Koziol, Chair of PDA, the new position is a reflection of the union's commitment to pharmacy and described the new Director of Pharmacy as "a senior level, proven and award-winning pharmacy leader."

A recent study, conducted by CBD experts at Brown's CBD, unveiled Dundee as the UK's leading CBD hotspot, with an average monthly search volume of 530.29 per 100,000 residents, sparking a surge of interest in natural wellness solutions. New research analysed search volume data across UK cities for CBD-related terms, reflecting a staggering 1100% increase in searches for 'what is CBD' over the last decade. Following Dundee, Brighton secures the second spot in the rankings with an average monthly search volume of 530.08 per 100,000 residents for CBD related terms, closely trailed by St. Albans in third place. Other notable cities making the top ranks include Gloucester, Hereford, and Bath, indicating a widespread curiosity about CBD products and their purported health benefits.

Recent NHS data sheds light on the evolving landscape of fit note certification, indicating a gradual expansion of roles beyond traditional medical practitioners to pharmacists and nurses. This uptake in numbers coincides with the Department of Work and Pensions's (DWP) call for evidence in relation to fit note reform which will remain open till 8 July 2024. According to figures published by NHS Digital, during the nine-month period from April 2023 to December 2023, pharmacists certified a significant number of fit notes. Approximately 1.4 per cent of fit notes of the 8 million were issued by pharmacists while the rest were issued by the GP surgeries reflecting the impact following legislative amendments in July 2022, which extended certification authority to pharmacists, nurses, occupational therapists, and physiotherapists. In June 2022, the Pharmacists' Defence Association (PDA) advised pharmacists not to sign fit notes where the required therapeutic, diagnostic, or examination skills lie outside their scope of competence. The association remarked that healthcare professionals needed mandatory training under the Health Education England before they are fit to issue fitness notes to the public.

"We need to fix the front door to our NHS by investing in community pharmacy," asserts Daisy Cooper as more and more pharmacies "worry about the future of their business." Reflecting on the challenges faced by pharmacists during the pandemic, she emphasised their pivotal role in launching vaccination schemes across communities and the larger role pharmacies play in complementing traditional NHS facilities. Cooper recalls her collaboration with local pharmacies in St. Albans, where she worked hand in glove with them to address challenges faced by pharmacists to obtain information from NHS England regarding protocols and procedures. She told Pharmacy Business reporter that she had to work out something "hand in glove to help them get those vaccinated schemes up and running, as pharmacies were desperate to take part in the vaccination scheme" in her constituency. Describing their unique selling point (USP), Cooper emphasised the convenience and immediacy of pharmacies located in high street areas and warned that pharmacy closures "should be a real wake up call for the government."

Nestled in the heart of a bustling high street and a housing estate, at Lincoln Pharmacy, part of Mildcare Ltd Group, in Tower Hamlets in London, the scene is a testament to resilience and innovation, where queues of people seek aid from a pharmacy technician stationed behind a glass window-a symbol of the enduring impact of the pandemic. Amidst the array of modern amenities at the pharmacy stands Atulkumar Patel, the proprietor and Independent Prescriber (IP) at Lincoln Pharmacy, whose vision has propelled the establishment into a beacon of progressive healthcare. Owner of two Pharmacies, Patel's team of 20 dispenses an average of 20,000 prescriptions monthly, maintaining an NHS/OTC split of 80/20. Recipient of the prestigious Independent Prescriber of the Year award at the Pharmacy Business Awards 2023, Patel reflects on the pivotal moment when his pharmacy pioneered the rollout of COVID-19 vaccine jabs within the community. "When doctors' doors closed, pharmacy was the only place where people could get help and care," Patel recounts, emphasising the pivotal role pharmacies played during the crisis. Patel's dedication during the pandemic extended beyond mere service provision; it was about showcasing the untapped potential of pharmacies.

In a move towards greater diversity and inclusivity, the National Pharmacy Association (NPA) has welcomed three accomplished women to its board of key members. Aisling O'Brien, Sukhi Basra, and Sehar Shahid-who is the youngest member- have joined the board, marking a significant step in the organisation's commitment to equality and representation. The announcement, made on the occasion of the International Women's Day, by chief executive, Paul Rees MBE via X reflects the organisation's dedication to celebrating and empowering women in the pharmacy profession. Sukhi Basra, the inaugural female board member since last April, adds a valuable dimension to the NPA. With her role as a Community Pharmacy KCW committee member and her experience in clinical pharmacy spanning over 25 years, she brings a wealth of knowledge and a distinctive viewpoint.

Opella Healthcare, trading as Sanofi Consumer Healthcare, said it has entered into a dual partnership agreement with Alliance Healthcare and Phoenix Healthcare Distribution for the wholesale supply of its products to UK pharmacies. In effect from the start of February, the new dual partnership will ensure Sanofi Consumer Healthcare 'continues to provide its customers with exceptional customer service', the company said, adding that the increased efficiency will facilitate improved service levels and stock availability of Cialis Together, Allevia, Buscopan, Dulcolax and Phenergan to community pharmacies in the UK. "At Sanofi Consumer Healthcare we are committed to supporting the self-care agenda in the UK," Nick Linton, head of UK country operations, commented. "Making healthcare as simple as it should be to bring health and wellbeing to all is a key priority for us in 2024 and beyond. Our new wholesale model reflects our deep commitment to working as efficiently as possible in close partnership with pharmacists to shape a healthier future."

Achieving and maintaining healthy-looking skin is a journey that requires dedication and a well-rounded approach. Our skin, the largest organ in our body, deserves the utmost care to thrive. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into a step-by-step approach that encompasses various aspects of skincare, from daily routines to advanced treatments. Discover the secrets to a radiant complexion that not only looks good but also reflects your overall well-being. Establish a Consistent Daily Routine A consistent daily skincare routine is the bedrock for achieving and maintaining healthy skin. This foundational step involves a series of carefully chosen products and practices that work together to nourish, protect, and rejuvenate your skin. Begin your routine with a gentle cleanser to remove impurities and prepare your skin for subsequent products. Follow this with a balancing toner to restore your skin's pH and create an optimal environment for absorption. Integrate a quality moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and maintain its natural barrier. Don't overlook the importance of sunscreen in the morning to shield your skin from the harmful effects of UV rays. This daily ritual not only provides essential nutrients for your skin but also establishes a preventive measure against environmental stressors, setting the stage for a radiant and healthy complexion.

Staveley Pharmacy, a well-established community pharmacy located in the picturesque village of Kendal within the Lake District, has undergone a change in ownership. The family-run business led by a husband-and-wife team has been acquired by brothers Mohammad Waqas and Khuram Shazad, taking the helm as first-time buyers, according to Hutchings Consultants. Known for its strong counter trade and deep community ties, the pharmacy has been nurtured and managed by the previous owners with a profound dedication to the local community. Over the years, they have developed the business into a trusted local institution. Paul Steet, Associate Director of Hutchings who managed the sale, reflected on the transition, noting the longstanding relationship with the sellers. "Having worked with the previous owners since 2015 when they initially contacted Hutchings Consultants to discuss a valuation of the business, I feel personally connected to this pharmacy. I am delighted that Mohammad and Khuram will be taking over the reins," he said.

A recent report published by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) has highlighted a significant increase in the number of registered pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, indicating the expanding role of these professionals in the UK healthcare system. As of May 31, 2024, the GPhC register recorded a total of 90,739 pharmacy professionals, up from 90,604 at the end of April 2024. This includes 64,415 pharmacists and 26,324 pharmacy technicians, maintaining a steady split of 71 per cent pharmacists and 29 per cent pharmacy technicians. This reflects an overall increase of four pharmacists and 131 pharmacy technicians from the previous month. The report underscores the critical role of pharmacy professionals in ensuring high-quality patient care and supporting the operational efficiency of pharmacies.

The business landscape worldwide is undergoing a significant transformation, shifting from a sole focus on profitability to incorporating a broader spectrum of considerations. Today, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria are integral to business operations, reflecting a commitment to sustainable and ethical practices alongside financial growth. ESG stands for three interconnected pillars: Environmental, focusing on reducing a company's ecological footprint; Social, addressing the impact on employees, diversity, equity, inclusion, and the broader community; and Governance, which ensures responsible management practices, ethical behavior, and compliance with regulations. This holistic approach is becoming a critical foundation for long-term success in various industries, including healthcare. For the UK healthcare and pharmacy sectors, integrating ESG not only aligns with global sustainability goals but also offers substantial benefits. This article delves into the specific implications of ESG for UK pharmacies, highlighting how they can leverage these practices to foster both community well-being and business success.

Online pharmacy delivery partner Gophr has released new data showing a further drop in pharmacy numbers in England, resulting in a phenomenon they call 'Pharmacy Deserts'. Gophr highlighted that a significant portion of the population now lives in 'pharmacy deserts,' referring to the situation where an increasing number of urban residents struggle to access a shrinking number of pharmacies. For the second consecutive year, Gophr has analysed the data for its 'Prescription For Pressure' initiative. The analysis showed that in 2023, pharmacists dispensed 1.18 billion prescriptions across England, marking an increase of 137 million compared to 2022. The average number of prescriptions per pharmacy stands at 103,380, which equates to 283 a day. As calculated by Gophr's data experts, pharmacy numbers decreased from 11,522 in 2022 to 11,414 in 2023, reflecting a decline of 108 compared to the previous year's 'Prescription For Pressure'. Gophr's data also showed that pharmacy deserts are most prominent in the South East (6,024 people per pharmacy), the East of England (5,327), the South West (5,284), and the Midlands (4,975). London, which ranked high last year, fell out of the top four, with 4,759 people per pharmacy.

Pharmacist Support has released its 2023 Impact Report, revealing significant growth in digital access and well-being initiatives. The report shows a 49 per cent increase in website visits and a corresponding 47 per cent rise in pages viewed compared to the previous year. These improvements reflect the charity's investment in digital infrastructure to enhance access to critical services for pharmacists nationwide. Additionally, calls to the peer support scheme, Listening Friends, increased by 74 per cent , aided by the introduction of an online referral form. The charity also reported a 23 per cent rise in financial grants awarded, amounting to £193,528, through a new online grants portal.