The pharmacy team is delighted to share the success of the cardiology pharmacists in winning first prize in the Good Practice Initiative category for their poster and oral presentation at the 29th Congress of the European Association of Hospital Pharmacists, held recently in Copenhagen.
Working alongside Trust clinicians and primary care colleagues, the team conducted a comprehensive review of patients prescribed amiodarone - a medication used to treat heart rhythm disorders - to ensure appropriate monitoring and review in line with new national prescribing guidance.
This important work, led by Katie Joyce, Dan Jukes, and Fraser Stewart, followed the publication of NICE guidance, which states that amiodarone should only be used in limited clinical situations and prescribed in primary care only where a shared care arrangement is in place.
The pharmacy team assessed the clinical details of 129 patients across 61 GP practices in County Durham, ensuring a smooth and safe transfer of care between clinical teams.
Through this collaboration with colleagues across the healthcare system, patients requiring amiodarone therapy now receive care in a safe and effective manner, as close to home as possible.
This project highlights how the expertise of specialist pharmacists, combined with strong partnerships, can deliver significant clinical benefits and improve patient care through an integrated approach.
Congratulations to Katie, Dan, and Fraser on this outstanding achievement.
