In 2016, we embarked on an exciting and innovative training project with Celesio UK (now McKesson UK, the parent company of Lloyds Pharmacy). At the time, the concept of ‘Pharmacy First’ was in its infancy—a bold idea that sought to expand the role of pharmacists beyond dispensing medications, enabling them to assess and treat common medical ailments. Rather than relying on already overstretched A&E and GP services, patients could receive timely care from trained pharmacy professionals.
Breaking New Ground in Community Healthcare
Recognising the potential of this approach, we designed a comprehensive curriculum that equipped pharmacists with clinical assessment skills, allowing them to diagnose and manage common conditions using structured care pathways. These pathways were developed under our clinical governance frameworks, ensuring safe and effective decision-making. Our training team, made up of primary healthcare nurses and paramedics, delivered hands-on education, bridging the gap between pharmacy and frontline healthcare.
For many pharmacists, this training was transformative. They moved from a primarily advisory role to confident decision-makers, capable of assessing patients, identifying conditions, and offering treatment options. This new skill set didn’t just improve patient care—it also created an additional revenue stream for pharmacies through the sale of relevant medications and healthcare products. At the time, there was no official funding for initiatives like this, making it an entirely self-sustaining model.
Impact and Legacy
Through our efforts, we successfully trained over 150 pharmacists in assessment and diagnosis skills, empowering them to deliver frontline care in their communities. The impact was immediate—patients benefited from quicker access to treatment, GPs saw reduced demand for appointments, and pharmacies expanded their role in primary healthcare provision.
Fast forward to today, and the Pharmacy First model has been rolled out nationwide. Pharmacists across the country are now utilising the very skills we helped introduce nearly a decade ago, marking a significant shift in how primary care services operate in the UK. The idea of integrating pharmacies into frontline healthcare is no longer a novel concept—it’s a core part of the NHS’s strategy for improving access to care.
Reflecting on How Far We’ve Come
Looking back, it’s incredible to see how a pioneering idea has evolved into a mainstream healthcare service. What started as a forward-thinking pilot project has become a vital component of modern primary care, helping to relieve pressure on NHS services and improve patient outcomes.
Our early work with Celesio UK played a key role in demonstrating what was possible, and we take immense pride in knowing that we helped lay the groundwork for a nationwide transformation in pharmacy-led healthcare. It’s a testament to the power of innovation, collaboration, and forward-thinking education—and a reminder that sometimes, the boldest ideas can become the future of healthcare.
Are you interested in developing clinical training or apprenticeships for your healthcare professionals? Get in touch to see how we can help empower your team with the skills they need to deliver outstanding patient care.