Jennifer Laskey appointed as Scotland’s first consultant pharmacist

She will support the West of Scotland Cancer Network in ensuring that patients across community, primary and acute settings have access to the highest quality care

NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde has appointed Jennifer Laskey as Scotland's first consultant pharmacist, marking a significant step forward for pharmacy profession in the country.

Laskey's new role involves providing support to the West of Scotland Cancer Network, where she will play a pivotal role in enhancing healthcare outcomes. Her appointment underscores the commitment of NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde to improving patient care and highlights the growing importance of pharmacist-led initiatives in Scotland's healthcare landscape.

Laskey, a pharmacist from Scotland, will extend her expertise to bolster the West of Scotland Cancer Network, aiming to enhance outcomes and survival rates across various healthcare settings.

As part of recruitment to become a consultant pharmacist, Laskey obtained credentials from the RPS serving in an accredited consultant post ensuring standardisation across the UK for patients and the system.

Laskey highlighted that cancer remains a significant health concern, affecting 1 in 2 people, and as survival rates improve, more people are living with the condition.

“Within my role, I am working across community, primary and acute care sectors to ensure that people in Scotland can access excellent cancer care now and, in the future," she said.

Joseph Oakley, associate director of assessment and credentialing at the Royal Pharmaceutical Society, expressed his delight at Laskey's appointment, calling it a major recognition of her significant expertise and experience across the four pillars of practice.

According to him, her appointment also recognises the significant role consultant pharmacists can play in improving patient care.

"I know Jennifer’s appointment will go a long way to improving health outcomes for cancer patients in the West of Scotland, and I hope this is the first of many similar appointments across Scotland," he said.

As the representative of the West of Scotland Cancer Network, Jennifer's appointment is expected to significantly impact health outcomes for cancer patients in the region.