Essential Services

Dispensing €“ With the introduction of LABA (long-acting beta agonist) and LAMA (long-acting muscarinic receptor antagonist) inhalers, there are now a large number of varying inhalers that COPD patients can be prescribed, and each will have a different technique for correct use. When a patient receives a new inhaler, the pharmacist should introduce the device and demonstrate how to use it, and of course offer the NMS to every patient.

Signposting €“ If not already provided by the local primary care organisation as part of the Community Pharmacy Signposting Folder, it would be useful for pharmacies to hold information about local pulmonary rehabilitation programmes and COPD care services, including chest or respiratory clinics and stop smoking providers, as well
as organisations like the British Lung Foundation.

Advanced Services

MURs €“ Since 1 April 2015, community pharmacies have been contractually required to carry out at least 70 per cent of their MURs among one or more of the MUR target groups. Respiratory medicines and patients recently discharged from hospital are two of the four target groups. An MUR provides the ideal opportunity for community pharmacists to identify patients who may be struggling with their COPD medication, help the patient understand why these are used and check and/or teach inhaler technique. Improving a patient's inhaler technique will help them self manage their condition to relieve symptoms, aid exercise tolerance, and prevent complications. 

The NMS €“ This service will help COPD patients understand the benefits of any new medicines they may be on, and the pharmacist will be able to support the patient if any side effects occur. The NMS also includes the provision of lifestyle interventions such as brief advice on stopping smoking or promotion of exercise.