Abstract
Introduction
The British Geriatric Society (BGS) highlighted the need for workforce improvement and development of a skilled multidisciplinary team (MDT) in older people’s healthcare in their 2024 roundtable, “Transforming care for older people”. This survey aimed to gather views from pharmacy professionals on career progression and how the BGS and UK Clinical Pharmacy Association (UKCPA) can support their advancement in this speciality.
Method
A Google Forms questionnaire was designed to collect data on demographics, education, working practices, and specialisation. Respondents were asked about the need for defined core competencies and an advanced curriculum for the speciality, as well as the support professional groups should provide. The survey was distributed through BGS and UKCPA communication channels.
Results
Thirty-eight pharmacy professionals responded, with pharmacists comprising the majority (n=37, 97%), working primarily in secondary (n=21, 55%) and primary care (n=12, 32%). Most respondents were female (n=31, 82%) and 61% (n=23) identified as white British. Over 80% (n=31) were at a senior level (band 8a or above), with 68% (n=26) having over 10 years’ experience. Many identified as specialists in care of older people (n=29, 76%). There was unanimous support for an advanced pharmacist curriculum specific to older people’s care for those seeking to credential at an advanced level, and 90% (n=34) agreed on the need for core competencies for all pharmacy staff in this area. Key themes to enable progression included structured support, mentorship, clear career pathways, accredited courses, and opportunities to share expertise.
Conclusion
The BGS and UKCPA are well-positioned to develop an advanced curriculum in older people’s healthcare, aligned with existing professional pathways already implemented by the Royal Pharmaceutical Society. Joint initiatives to provide structured development opportunities could enhance the specialist workforce, ensuring high-quality pharmacy services are provided routinely as part of multidisciplinary teams caring for older people.