The Service
The Medicines Information Service at Northampton General Hospital provides high quality information on the use and administration of medicines, including dosages, adverse reactions, availability, choice of therapy, interactions, pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, pregnancy and breastfeeding.
The Service is available to secondary care health professionals within Northampton and southern Northamptonshire. We are open from 9.00am to 5.00pm, Monday to Friday.
A team of two pharmacists, a technician and a secretary work in the department. In addition to providing medicines information, we are involved in formulary and antibiotic work.
Statistics
We receive over 130 queries per month on a wide range of issues from both healthcare professionals and members of the public. We produce 6 -12 bulletins per year on topical medicines related subjects.
Training
Pre-registration pharmacists and pharmacists in training receive comprehensive, structured training. They are encouraged to deal with real enquiries to develop their communication skills, utilise databases and provide active information through bulletin production.
Training in critical appraisal and current awareness sessions are provided to Pharmacy staff on a regular basis.
We also support pharmacists and technicians in further professional training, e.g. postgraduate diplomas, masters degrees, and encourage further education and professional development. Our technician was one of the first in the UK to complete the UKMI Technician Accreditation course.
If you would like further information, contact Nicola Webb, Principal Pharmacist, Medicines Information on 01604 545697 or e-mail: Medicinesinformation@ngh.nhs.uk