Navigating your New Role as a Clinical Pharmacist: 5 Key Tools and Resources
Transitioning into a role as a clinical pharmacist in primary care can be both rewarding and challenging. To excel in this new role, continuous learning and staying up to date with the latest advancements and guidance is crucial. In this short article, we will share the key tools and resources that can help you navigate your new role with confidence and provide the best possible care to your patients.
1. Training Programmes
As a clinical pharmacist, staying aware of the latest guidance is essential for providing high-quality, evidence based care. Online courses and training programmes can offer a flexible and accessible way to achieve this. These programmes can provide reliable and up-to-date information on physiology, pathophysiology, treatment guidelines including pharmacotherapy and clinical guidelines, in a structured manner which builds on your existing knowledge base. Whether you want to enhance specialised skills in areas such as Diabetes or Hypertension, online courses offer tailored options to strengthen your expertise. These programmes also offer the flexibility to learn at your own pace, allowing you to accommodate your busy schedule.
You can explore the latest training programs we have available here on our Academy website:
2. Guidance Documents
Guidance documents are also a vital resource for evidence-based decision-making in clinical practice. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) offers a wealth of guidance documents covering various medical conditions, treatments, and best practices. Additionally, NHS England provides primary care guidance on topics such as medication management, vaccinations, and patient safety. Staying updated with these documents helps you align your practice with national standards.
You can also access our range of free guidance summary documents here on our Academy website:
3. Conferences & Workshops
You should consider attending relevant conferences, webinars, and workshops to stay current and inspired in your role as a clinical pharmacist. These events often feature expert speakers, panel discussions, and opportunities to network with peers. They provide a platform for exchanging knowledge, sharing experiences, and gaining fresh insights into clinical practice.
4. Articles & Podcasts
Articles and podcasts can also serve as invaluable resources for clinical pharmacists. Articles provide in-depth exploration of clinical topics and expert guidance, allowing you to delve deep into subjects that matter most to your practice. Podcasts can also offer the convenience of auditory learning, making it easier to absorb information while on the go or during breaks. They often feature interviews with experts, share practical experiences, and highlight key advice and guidance. Both articles and podcasts foster continuous learning and can be an excellent information source as you start your new role.
Explore our recent articles and the latest episodes of our CPS podcast here on our website:
5. Support Networks
Building a strong support network is another essential tool for success as a clinical pharmacist in primary care. You should consider connecting with fellow pharmacists through local and national pharmacy associations, online forums, and social media groups. These networks can provide a platform for sharing experiences, seeking advice, and staying informed about industry trends and challenges. Remember, you are not alone in your journey, and these support networks can be very helpful when starting a new role.
You can join our Clinical Pharmacist Network on Telegram here:
In Summary:
Embarking on a career as a clinical pharmacist in primary care is incredibly rewarding, but it does require continuous learning and staying updated with the latest clinical guidance. The key tools and resources highlighted above will help you to keep updated and to navigate your new role with confidence.