Professional Standards for Homecare Services updated

The refreshed standards consider present and future needs in homecare services

The Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) has updated the Professional Standards for Homecare Services to ensure high quality care for patients receiving medicines and associated services in the comfort of their own homes.

Originally published in 2013, these standards provide a comprehensive framework to support teams involved in planning, commissioning, and delivering homecare services.

The RPS said that these standards were updated to ensure that they align with the needs and expectations of recipients of homecare services, as well as commissioners and providers.

Changes were made based on responses received through a consultation process, which was participated by representatives from the National Homecare Medicines Committee, the Association of Pharmacy Technicians, the Pharmacy Forum of Northern Ireland, and the Royal College of Nursing.

“The consultation gathered evidence which emphasised the need for improvement to the homecare standards,” said Wing Tang, Head of Professional Standards at RPS.

“Adherence to the refreshed standards, which consider present and future needs in homecare services, will ensure patients receive the highest level of care,” he added.

Further, Tang reiterated the Society’s commitment to improving healthcare standards through continuous collaboration with patient groups and stakeholders.

Professor Cathy Harrison, Chief Pharmaceutical Officer for Northern Ireland, maintained that the updated Professional Standards for Homecare Services will support safe and effective care for patients and help improve the quality of current and future services across the UK.

These updated standards apply to all healthcare professionals involved in the planning, commissioning, or provision of homecare services.

Homecare service providers are encouraged to adhere to professional standards to ensure the safety and well-being of patients and protect them from avoidable incidents while facilitating the best possible outcomes from their prescribed medicines.