References
Paramedic independent prescribing in primary care: seven steps to success
Abstract
Paramedic practice is evolving and the number of advanced paramedics in primary care roles in the UK has risen dramatically. Recent legislation granting paramedics independent prescribing rights means UK paramedics are the first worldwide to receive this extension in scope of practice – a significant milestone for the paramedic profession. Paramedic prescribing capability is expected to increase autonomy for independent case management and enhance capacity for service development. However, local and national success is likely to depend on skilful implementation and avoidance of historical barriers. This article aims to raise awareness of potential barriers to early adoption of paramedic independent prescribing in primary care. It identifies common pitfalls prior to training and provides seven practical steps for paramedics considering pursuing non-medical prescribing training.
Internationally, paramedic practice is becoming increasingly diverse (Morton et al, 2015; Caffrey et al, 2014). The changing nature of clinical work and developments in education, training and career pathways have seen a rapid growth in the number of novel paramedic roles contributing to care pathways outside traditional ambulance settings (Bigham et al, 2013; Brooks et al, 2016; Batt et al, 2019). In the UK, following recommendations made by the Primary Care Workforce Commission in 2015, there has been a rapid rise in the number of paramedic practitioners (PPs) working in general practice (Health Education England (HEE), 2015). An estimated 694 PPs are now based in general practice (NHS Digital, 2019), delivering care within single or combined home visit, clinic and telephone consultation services (Brown, 2017; Booker and Voss, 2019; Proctor, 2019). The recent introduction of independent prescribing (IP) rights to the paramedic profession is anticipated to increase autonomy and capacity for independent case management, optimise skill mix and help facilitate novel service redesign (NHS England (NHSE), 2015).
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