The event thoroughly explored the entire process of becoming an Independent Prescriber, from the prerequisites for being accepted onto a course to evidence collection and the final assessment.
However, it was also emphasised throughout the evening that while the PDA wants to support pharmacists who choose to become Independent Prescribers, it also wants to support those who don’t and ensure that all pharmacists can have a fulfilling career.
At the beginning of his presentation, Jay covered the basics of how to access the funded places to become an Independent Prescriber and highlighted that it is a time-sensitive process. Plus, he explained the requirements for becoming an Independent Prescriber, including what qualification and level of experience is needed.
The event then explored in detail the different choices that pharmacists have when acquiring the Independent Prescribing qualification. This included choosing a course format, a Designated Prescribing Practitioner, and a therapeutic area. Jay offered advice and tips on how to make the right choice depending on an individual’s circumstances.
Finally, Jay also covered the process of undertaking and completing the course. He showed attendees his own evidence log and discussed evidence collection, as well as the theoretical learning, practical experience, and assessments that are required.
The event concluded with an engaging Q&A session. Jay answered many of the attendees’ questions, which spanned various areas of Independent Prescribing. He also responded to numerous concerns, reassuring members that it’s the PDA’s priority to ensure that pharmacists who aren’t Independent Prescribers will always have a worthy place in the pharmacy industry so they can continue serving their patients.
PDA members who have any queries or concerns about becoming an Independent Prescriber should contact the PDA policy team by emailing [email protected].
PDA member feedback
After the event, attendees commented on how “thorough and clear” the presentation was.
One member said, “Thank you so much for taking your time to do this for us and for being so transparent about navigating the IP course. This has been very insightful. I have felt that it has been difficult to find this information anywhere else.”
Another member said, “By far the most useful session on IP. Thank you.”
Not yet a PDA member?
If you have not yet joined the PDA, we encourage you to join today and ask your colleagues to do the same.
Membership is FREE to pharmacy students, trainee pharmacists and for the first three months of being newly qualified.
Read about our key member benefits here.