Unlock the Growth Opportunity with Pharmacy First

Starting from January 31, 2024, there will be a change to the healthcare system. A new service called Pharmacy First is being introduced, and will offer exciting possibilities for pharmacy businesses to grow. This comes after the success of the Community Pharmacy Consultation Service (CPCS).

TympaHealth, are a team of doctors and technology experts united by a mission to help the world achieve better ear and hearing health.

We’re here to give you a complete guide on all ear health services, including Acute Otitis Media through the Pharmacy First clinical pathway.

The Pharmacy First Advantage

The Pharmacy First service is a significant opportunity for Pharmacy business. It will enable local pharmacies to give expert advice, treatments, and medicines for 7 common illnesses. This creates a new way for people to get quick and convenient healthcare services in their community, reducing the need for a GP.

This initiative, in line with the government and NHS England’s plan to improve access to primary care, highlights the increased role of community pharmacies in easing the workload on general practice.

Recognising the financial challenges faced by community pharmacies currently, Pharmacy First is as a key way to bring much-needed investment into the sector.

Pharmacies joining Pharmacy First will get an initial fixed payment of £2,000 (to help set up their Pharmacy First services) and £15 for each consultation. They can also earn £1,000 every month for meeting a minimum number of consultations, offering great financial incentive.

Pharmacy First will cover 7 common conditions, including:

  • Sinusitis
  • Sore throat
  • Earache
  • Infected insect bites
  • Impetigo
  • Shingles
  • Uncomplicated urinary tract infections in women

Grasping the Earache Opportunity

Though pharmacy businesses are already familiar with many conditions covered by Pharmacy First, the addition of Acute Otitis Media in children could bring about new challenges. It is crucial to seek the right information and support in managing this condition.

TympaHealth are leading experts in ear and hearing health technology and are perfectly positioned to help you prepare for and deliver this service successfully and safely.

Clinical Pathway

Understanding the appropriate clinical pathway for Acute Otitis Media is crucial.

Acute Otitis Media is defined as the presence of inflammation in the middle ear, associated with an effusion and accompanied by the rapid onset of symptoms and signs of an ear infection.

It is a common condition that can be caused by both viruses and bacteria.

In 2012 Acute Otitis Media accounted for over 500,000 primary consultations.

Essential Equipment

The Acute Otitis Media clinical pathway requires the purchase of an otoscope and there are many options available on the market.

Selecting the right technology and receiving appropriate training to care for children with Acute Otitis Media can be challenging.

We’re here to help.

tympa-otoscopy-device
tymphealth trainer showing two trainees how to use a Tympa

Training for success

TympaHealth’s tailored Pharmacy First training course can give you the knowledge and practical guidance for implementing the Acute Otitis Media clinical pathway, ensuring your business is ready to deliver premium level care.

Training is available for:

  • Pharmacists
  • Pharmacy technicians

(Technicians cannot use other otoscopy equipment and require the use of the Tympa device).

A number of Local Pharmaceutical Committee (LPC’s) have already benefitted from our training, with feedback explaining that the most important element was the face-to-face support and coaching that pharmacists received.