PSNC: Pharmacists need a larger role in management of asthma

The Pharmaceutical Services Negotiating Committee (PSNC) has called for the pharmacy sector to be handed a larger role in helping to prevent asthma-related hospital admissions.

In response to recent government figures showing a seasonal increase in asthma-related hospital admissions in September 2014, the PSNC said current asthma care standards within the NHS are "not working" for all patients.

Alastair Buxton, head of NHS services at PSNC, told Chemist and Druggist that there is a wealth of evidence that pharmacies can make a difference in this area, making it easier for patients to better manage their condition.

He argued that pharmacists could help cut hospital admissions by extending services to allow pharmacies help more patients with their inhaler technique and offer extra support to improve outcomes.

Mr Buxton said: "There is no doubt that we need to improve the care of people with asthma to help them manage their medicines and conditions better and, as ever, this is particularly true as we approach the winter months."

The PSNC promotes and supports the interests of all NHS community pharmacies in England, working directly with NHS England and other key bodies.