Clarity Locums Weekly News Blog

Weekly News Blog: Clarity Locums - October 22, 2024

Welcome to this week’s news blog, where Clarity Locums brings you the latest updates from the healthcare industry across Ireland and the UK. We cover major developments in pharmacy education, community healthcare challenges, nursing updates, and general practice. Here are the key highlights for this week:

Ireland 

1. SETU Selected for New Pharmacy School
In a significant advancement for pharmacy education in Ireland, the government has announced that South East Technological University (SETU) will be the site of a new pharmacy school. This initiative aims to address the growing demand for pharmacists and improve access to pharmaceutical education and training in the region. It’s a major win for the healthcare sector and will play a crucial role in supporting community health services throughout Ireland.
Read more about this important development here.

2. Challenges Facing Community Pharmacy
The Irish community pharmacy sector is under pressure, with reports highlighting issues like increasing workloads and staffing shortages. These challenges are affecting service delivery and patient care, sparking calls for stronger government support to help pharmacies manage rising healthcare demands. Addressing these concerns is essential to ensure pharmacies can continue to meet community needs effectively and sustainably.
Find out more details here.

3. Clarity Locums’ Q&A Event for Aspiring Locum Pharmacists
Clarity Locums is hosting a "Locum Account Setup and Q&A Evening" to guide pharmacists through the locum registration process and provide insights into locum work. This event is an excellent opportunity for pharmacists considering locum roles to learn more about the industry, clarify any doubts, and get expert advice on starting their locum careers.
Learn more about the upcoming event here.

United Kingdom

1. Accelerated Rollout of Independent Prescribing in Pharmacies
The UK government has committed to accelerating the rollout of independent prescribing for pharmacists. This move is expected to reduce pressure on GPs by allowing pharmacists to play a more direct role in managing patient care and providing access to medications. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to expand the scope of community pharmacy services and integrate pharmacists more fully into the primary healthcare system.
Read more about the government's plans here.

2. Leaders Outline Future Vision for Community Pharmacy
Key figures in the UK’s community pharmacy sector are advocating for an expanded role in primary healthcare. Their vision includes utilising pharmacists' clinical skills to manage long-term conditions, provide vaccination services, and offer health advice, thus going beyond traditional dispensing roles. This shift is seen as essential for addressing the changing needs of the healthcare system and reducing the burden on other primary care providers.
Learn more about this vision here.

3. Locum Pharmacist Setup and Support with Clarity Locums
Pharmacists interested in locum work in the UK can join Clarity Locums' "Locum Account Setup and Q&A Evening." This event aims to help pharmacists navigate the registration process and understand locum opportunities available in the UK. Whether you're new to locum work or looking to expand your career, this session is a great place to start.
More details can be found here.

Nurse

1. Pay Scale Increase for Nursing Staff Announced
The recently announced nursing pay scale increase is a welcome development for healthcare professionals, aimed at addressing staffing shortages and retaining skilled nurses in the workforce. The pay adjustment will help to make the nursing profession more attractive, while also recognising the essential role that nurses play in patient care across hospitals and other healthcare settings.
Read more about the pay increase here.

2. Quality of Life Improvements in Nursing Homes
A recent report shows that residents in nursing homes in Ireland are experiencing a better quality of life than in previous years. However, the rise of corporate ownership within the sector raises concerns about maintaining care standards, with potential risks to resident well-being as business interests grow. The report highlights the need for ongoing regulation and oversight to protect vulnerable individuals.
Learn more about the report's findings here.

3. INMO Ballots for Industrial Action Over Staffing Issues
The Irish Nurses and Midwives Organisation (INMO) is preparing to ballot its members for potential industrial action. The organisation cites a high number of unfilled nursing posts as a key concern, leading to increased workload and stress for existing staff. This move is part of broader efforts to push for better staffing levels and working conditions across the healthcare sector.
Read more about the INMO's plans here.

GP

1. Call to Include GP Care in New HSE Funding Allocation
A new report by the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) suggests that GP care should be included in the HSE's funding allocation strategy to ensure better access to primary care. This recommendation aims to improve resource distribution, particularly in underserved areas, and support GPs in delivering essential services to patients.
Find out more about the report here.

2. Increase in Whooping Cough Cases in Ireland
Over 500 cases of whooping cough have been reported in Ireland this year, prompting health authorities to urge parents to ensure children are vaccinated. The spike in cases serves as a reminder of the importance of immunisation in preventing the spread of infectious diseases, especially among young children and vulnerable groups.
Read more about the situation here.

3. Support for Safe Access Zones Outside Abortion Services
The former President of Irish GPs has welcomed the introduction of safe access zones outside abortion service providers, designed to protect those seeking care from harassment. This development is seen as a positive step toward ensuring the safety and privacy of individuals accessing reproductive health services.
Learn more about the new legislation here.

Stay informed with Clarity Locums for the latest healthcare news, and don't miss our upcoming events and resources for locum professionals. We are committed to supporting the healthcare community and providing valuable insights into the industry’s evolving landscape.