Differences between a traditional NHS pharmacy and an online NHS pharmacy?
In today’s digital age, accessing healthcare services and medications has become more convenient than ever. Traditional NHS pharmacies, also known as community pharmacies (local pharmacies) and online NHS pharmacies give patient’s choice of ways to obtain their medications and receive healthcare support. While both types of pharmacies play crucial roles in the healthcare system, there are distinct differences between them. This article will explore the characteristics of traditional NHS pharmacies and online NHS pharmacies, highlighting their unique features, benefits, and considerations for patients.
Traditional NHS Pharmacies: The Cornerstone of Primary Care
Traditional NHS pharmacies, often found on high streets or within retail outlets, have long been a familiar presence in communities across England. These community pharmacies serve as essential pillars of primary care, alongside general practice, optical services, and dentistry. While they are commonly associated with dispensing and retailing medicines, their role extends far beyond that. Community pharmacies provide a broad range of NHS services, making them easily accessible and offering valuable advice and support to patients.
Services Provided by Traditional NHS Pharmacies
Traditional NHS pharmacies offer a variety of services under the National Community Pharmacy Contractual Framework (CPCF). These services can be categorised into three main types:
- Essential Services: These services are mandatory and include activities such as dispensing medicines and medical appliances, advising patients on self-care, providing medicines support after hospital discharge, and disposing of unwanted or spare medicines
- Advanced Services: These services are optional and can be provided by community pharmacies that meet certain requirements. Examples of advanced services include flu vaccination, the New Medicine Service (which helps patients understand and make the best use of newly prescribed medicines), and the Community Pharmacist Consultation Service (which allows other parts of the health system to refer patients for urgent care needs and minor illness support)
- Enhanced Services: These services, which used to be commissioned by primary care trusts, are now primarily commissioned by NHS England or other public bodies. Examples of enhanced services include anticoagulation services, sexual health services, needle and syringe exchange services, and smoking cessation services
Ownership and Regulation of Traditional NHS Pharmacies
Traditional NHS pharmacies can be owned and operated by three different groups:
- Sole Traders: Individual pharmacists who own and operate community pharmacies
- Partnerships: Business partnerships consisting of two or more pharmacists who own and operate one or more community pharmacies
- Body Corporates: Registered companies that can own community pharmacies, but they must employ registered pharmacists to fulfil pharmacy responsibilities. A superintendent pharmacist is also required to oversee pharmacy activity across the entire business
To ensure patient safety and quality standards, traditional NHS pharmacies are regulated and monitored by various bodies. The Care Quality Commission (CQC) plays a crucial role in inspecting and rating community pharmacies, ensuring compliance with healthcare standards and best practices. Community pharmacies must also be accredited by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) and display the green registered pharmacy logo on their websites to signify their legitimacy and adherence to safety regulations. Additionally, the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) governs the safety, quality, and efficacy of medicines and medical devices in the UK.
Online NHS Pharmacies: The Digital Frontier of Healthcare
The rise of online pharmacies has transformed the way medicine is supplied and accessed by patients. NHS Online pharmacies provide a convenient and discreet platform for individuals to manage their healthcare needs, especially for conditions that may be considered embarrassing or sensitive. These digital pharmacies often offer prescribing services, enabling patients to have online doctor consultations and receive prescriptions that are then dispensed by a pharmacy.
However, the problem with the majority of online pharmacies is that they heavily focused on providing prescription services only. Pioneering online pharmacies are using newer technology to provide clinical services remotely. NowPatient offers NHS clinical services like the new NHS Pharmacy First and NHS New Medicine Service remotely.
NowPatient – NHS Online Pharmacy
Switch to NowPatient today and start enjoying a new way of managing your NHS prescriptions. It’s free to join and because we are directly integrated with the NHS and your GP, you will be able to immediately see your medications and place orders once you have created an account. With a range of added benefits, there has never been a better time to join.
NowPatient is an online pharmacy & telehealth service that is available in the US and UK. Our service is FREE and packed with useful features that can help you save money on the cost of your medications, access virtual treatments, and provide tools that can help improve your overall health. Get started today and benefit from medication reminders, private treatment plans, NHS online pharmacy, GP appointment booking, Rx savings card, Drug Coupons, US drug savings programs, health conditions information, genetic testing, home test kits, BMI Risks, Type 2 Diabetes Risks, pollen meter, air quality monitor, and lots more!
We are here to improve lives. Our service gives you access to smart features and resources that can help empower you to take control of your health and improve your health outcomes. All this, in one place, free of charge. We strive to bring a fresh perspective to managing health. NowPatient can be accessed by downloading the App or using your web browser. See how we are different
The Appeal of Online NHS Pharmacies
Online NHS pharmacies have gained popularity due to their convenience and accessibility. With the increasing use of digital technologies and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, patients are turning to online platforms for their health issues. Online pharmacies offer the following benefits:
- Convenience: Patients can order medications and access healthcare services from the comfort of their own homes, eliminating the need to visit a physical pharmacy
- Discretion: Online pharmacies provide a discreet option for individuals seeking treatment for sensitive conditions, as they can avoid face-to-face interactions
- Prescribing Services: Some online pharmacies offer prescriber services, allowing patients to consult with healthcare providers remotely and receive prescriptions for their medications
Ensuring Safety and Legitimacy: Regulatory Bodies
To ensure patient safety and protect against illegal practices, it is crucial to distinguish legitimate online NHS pharmacies from unauthorised sources. Patients should look for accreditation and registrations from the following regulatory bodies:
- CQC (Care Quality Commission) Regulation: The CQC regulates and inspects online pharmacies to ensure they meet the highest standards of compliance and quality. Patients should verify that an online pharmacy appears on the CQC register, which provides confidence in the pharmacy’s qualifications and adherence to clinical and regulatory standards
- GPhC (General Pharmaceutical Council) Approval: Online pharmacies operating in Great Britain must be accredited by the GPhC. Patients should look for the green registered pharmacy logo on online pharmacy websites, indicating that the pharmacy has met the requirements for a safe and genuine medication supply
- MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency) Registration: The MHRA governs the safety and regulation of medicines and medical devices in the UK. Patients can verify an online pharmacy’s legitimacy by checking for MHRA registration or appropriate accreditations
The Distinction: Community Pharmacy vs. Online Pharmacy
While traditional NHS pharmacies and online NHS pharmacies both provide important healthcare and pharmacy services, it is essential to understand their differences and consider which option suits individual needs best.
- Community Pharmacies: Traditional NHS pharmacies, also known as community pharmacies, are physical establishments where patients can access prescription medicines and other healthcare services in person. They have qualified healthcare professionals, such as pharmacists, available to provide face-to-face advice and support. Community pharmacies may also offer online services alongside their physical presence
- Online Pharmacies: Online NHS pharmacies, also referred to as internet pharmacies operate solely online through websites or apps. Patients can order NHS prescriptions online, and the pharmacy works in collaboration with GP practices through the NHS network to fulfil these orders. The Electronic prescription service (EPS) allows prescribers to send prescriptions electronically to a dispenser (such as a community pharmacy) without the need for a paper prescription. Online pharmacies provide digital platforms for patients to connect with healthcare professionals, access medication records, book appointments, and order repeat prescriptions
It is important to note that patients should exercise caution when using online pharmacies. Conducting thorough checks and ensuring the legitimacy and safety of the online pharmacy is crucial to protect against counterfeit products or potential risks to health.
Conclusion
Traditional NHS pharmacies and online NHS pharmacies each offer unique benefits and services to patients. Community pharmacies serve as readily accessible sources of healthcare advice and support, while online pharmacies provide convenience and discretion. However, over time and with technology rapidly evolving, the gap between online pharmacies and traditional pharmacies will be bridged. Pioneering providers like NowPatient are developing clinical service pathways connecting a bank of clinicians to patients and providing a secure clinical platform to provide clinical services remotely.
Patients should be aware of the regulatory bodies that ensure the safety and legitimacy of both types of pharmacies. Whether opting for a traditional community pharmacy or an online pharmacy, patients should prioritise their safety and quality of care. By understanding the differences between these two options, individuals can make informed decisions about accessing their medications and healthcare services in a way that best meets their needs.
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Medical Disclaimer
NowPatient has taken all reasonable steps to ensure that all material is factually accurate, complete, and current. However, the knowledge and experience of a qualified healthcare professional should always be sought after instead of using the information on this page. Before taking any drug, you should always speak to your doctor or another qualified healthcare provider.
The information provided here about medications is subject to change and is not meant to include all uses, precautions, warnings, directions, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or negative effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a particular medication does not imply that the medication or medication combination is appropriate for all patients or for all possible purposes.
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Your Questions Answered
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What does NowPatient do?
NowPatient is an online pharmacy & telehealth service that is available in the US and UK. Our service is FREE and packed with useful features that can help you save money on the cost of your medications, access virtual treatments, and provide tools that can help improve your overall health.
Get started today and benefit from medication reminders, Get Treated Privately, NHS online pharmacy, GP appointment booking, Rx savings card, Drug Coupons, US drug savings programs, health conditions information, genetic testing, home test kits, BMI Risks, Type 2 Diabetes Risks, pollen meter, air quality monitor, and lots more!
Our service is operated by experienced medical professionals in the United States and the United Kingdom. You can view the online services that we provide by clicking Features.
UK users can safely and securely buy medicines online that treat a wide range of medical conditions. UK customers can also order NHS prescriptions online with the benefit of free tracked delivery.
US customers, regardless of insurance coverage, can enjoy huge savings on prescription medications using our various drug savings programs including drug coupons, savings card and manufacturer-sponsored patient assistance programs.
Where is NowPatient located?
NowPatient has offices in the United Kingdom and United States.
In the UK, we are located at:
NowPatient
28 Chipstead Valley Road
Coulsdon
Surrey
CR52RA
In the US, we are located at:
NowPatient
8911 North Capital of Texas Highway
Suite 4200 #1263
78759
Austin, TX
How can I contact NowPatient?
To contact NowPatient, please use the contact form available on the Contact Us page.
Alternatively, if you need to speak to us, you can reach us on the following numbers:
UK telephone number – 020 388 51 500
US telephone number – 1-866-967-1977
Who owns NowPatient?
NowPatient is owned and operated by Infohealth Ltd, a licensed online pharmacy with services spanning the UK, US and Rest of the World. Infohealth Ltd is registered in England and Wales under company number 04004930 and our registered office is at Lynwood House, 373 – 375 Station Road, Harrow, England, HA1 2AW.
Our website is www.nowpatient.com. Our App is called “NowPatient” and can be downloaded from the App Store (for Apple devices) or Google Play (for Android devices).
Can you tell me more about your NHS online pharmacy?
NowPatient’s Pharmaceutical services in the UK are provided by Infohealth Limited trading as ‘Infohealth Pharmacy’.
Our dispensing pharmacy is regulated and authorized for internet sales by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), registration number 1036487. You can view our license credentials on the General Pharmaceutical Council website. Our superintendent pharmacist who is responsible for the safe and effective oversight of medicines supplies is Mr Amish Patel (Registration Number 2042705).
Medicines are not ordinary items of commerce. All medicines or healthcare product sales are made under the supervision of a registered pharmacist who is licensed by the GPhC. At all times, we endeavour to provide a professional and transparent service whose primary goal is to ensure that the best interests of the patient are served.
How do I make a complaint?
From time to time, we accept that our service levels may not be up to your expectations. NowPatient welcomes concerns, compliments and complaints as valuable feedback that will help us learn from your experiences and make improvements. Feedback can be provided via our clear and transparent Complaints Procedures.
Can you tell me more about NowPatient’s prescribing services for treatments offered?
Our prescribing services are regulated by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC). We provide the following regulated activity:
• treatment of disease, disorder, or injury
• transport services, triage, and medical advice are provided remotely
• caring for adults over 65 years old
• caring for adults under 65 years old
NowPatient prescribing services are run by Infohealth Limited. The Clinical Safety Officer and nominated individual is Mr Navin Khosla.
Can you tell me more about NowPatient’s US services?
Our head of US services is Dr. Jamie Winn.
You can lower the cost of your prescription medications using our various savings programs which include drug coupons, savings card and manufacturer-sponsored patient assistance programs.
We do not provide any prescribing services or dispensing services in the United States.
Is NowPatient legit and can I trust information from NowPatient?
Yes. NowPatient provides trustworthy and accessible clinical, health education and prescription services. We are also trusted by the NHS to deliver clinical and NHS repeat prescription dispensing across the whole of England. In the United States, we work with over 65,000 pharmacies to deliver considerable costs savings for our users.
NowPatient is operated by experienced licensed medical professionals in the United Kingdom and United States. Our Medical Team can be found here.
Our service is trusted by thousands of patients worldwide. You can read their reviews on our Trustpilot:
What are NowPatient’s opening hours?
Our office hours are:
UK – Monday-Friday 9am-6pm GMT
US – Monday-Friday 8am-5pm EST
Please note that we are closed at weekends.
In the event of a medical life-threatening emergency please call:
UK – 999
US – 911
In the event of a medical emergency which is not life-threatening please call:
UK – 111