Job Summary
Billingham and Norton PCN is seeking a Primary Care Pharmacy Technician to support medicines optimisation across seven GP practices. The role is a fixed 12‑month contract to cover maternity leave and will work closely with pharmacists, GPs, nurses and other clinical staff in a patient‑facing setting.
Key attributes include: registration with the General Pharmaceutical Council, primary care experience, strong communication skills, computer literacy and the ability to prioritise work within a multidisciplinary environment.
Key Duties
* Support, promote, and implement high‑quality, evidence‑based, cost‑effective, and safe use of medicines.
* Improve prescribing practices across the PCN.
* Undertake patient‑facing and support roles to ensure effective medicines use.
* Provide medication‑related support to GPs, clinical pharmacists, other staff and reception teams, including medication reviews.
* Continuously develop clinical knowledge and apply skills to work‑plan projects that improve patient care.
* Receive clinical supervision and mentorship from clinical pharmacists and the Senior Clinical Pharmacist.
Clinical Duties
* Perform technical medication reviews and assist pharmacists with clinical reviews where applicable.
* Conduct clinical reviews of medication in specific areas under protocol direction.
* Assist practices with primary and secondary care interface issues.
* Advise patients on medication compliance and counsel them on use.
* Support pharmacists with medicines reconciliation and update patient records.
* Provide specialist expertise on public health and social care needs, including lifestyle advice.
* Take a central role in shared‑care protocols and liaise with specialist pharmacists.
* Support monitoring and management of high‑risk medicines.
* Respond to medication‑related enquiries from GPs, staff and patients professionally.
* Undertake simple audits of prescribing, report results and implement changes with the practice team.
* Advise GPs and staff on safer prescribing options when necessary.
Technical and Administrative Duties
* Implement repeat prescribing policies to ensure safe processes and reduce wastage.
* Plan, develop and support new working processes to optimise prescribing quality.
* Support the PCN and practices in delivering QOF and locally commissioned services.
* Ensure compliance with CQC standards where medicines are involved.
* Carry out housekeeping, dose optimisation and medication alignment.
* Provide alternative medication options when stock is unavailable.
* Deliver information and training to practice staff.
Safeguarding
* All staff must ensure safeguarding of patients and maintain duties that support child welfare.
Confidentiality
* Respect patient confidentiality and handle all information in accordance with GDPR and organisational policies.
Health & Safety
* Adhere to infection control, health and safety procedures, conduct risk assessments and report hazards promptly.
* Maintain clean and safe work areas and undertake periodic infection control training.
Equality and Diversity
* Support and respect the rights, diversity and dignity of all patients, carers and colleagues.
Personal and Professional Development
* Participate in annual performance reviews and maintain a record of professional development.
* Engage in statutory, mandatory and role‑specific training.
Quality
* Identify and report quality and risk issues, assess own performance, and propose improvements for team effectiveness.
* Develop effective working relationships and manage time, workload and resources efficiently.
Communication
* Communicate effectively with team members, stakeholders, patients and carers, and adapt communication methods as needed.
Contribution to Service Implementation
* Apply PCN policies, standards and guidance, and participate in audit activities.
Contract Details
* Salary: £15.50 – £17.00 per hour
* Contract type: Fixed term (12 months)
* Working pattern: Full‑time, part‑time, flexible, compressed hours
* Location: Abbey Health Centre, Finchale Avenue, Billingham, County Durham, TS23 2DG
Qualifications
* BTEC in Pharmaceutical Sciences / NVQ Level 3 or equivalent
* Registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council
* Evidence of continuing professional development
Desirable Qualifications
* Enrolled on or qualified from the Primary Care Pharmacy Educational Pathway (PCPEP)
Essential Knowledge and Skills
* Good clinical knowledge and understanding of Primary Care structure and General Practice
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills
* Organisational skills and ability to work independently and in a team
* Computer literacy, including Microsoft Office and web‑based searches
* Professional conduct at all times, with the ability to travel freely between sites
* Enthusiastic, self‑motivated and flexible working approach
* Ability to work under pressure
Desirable Knowledge and Skills
* Knowledge of GP clinical computer systems
* Valid driving licence and access to a car
Essential Experience
* Experience of patient consultation
* Experience of working with GPs
Desirable Experience
* Post‑qualification experience in community pharmacy, secondary care or primary care
Additional Information
* Disclosure and Barring Service Check required (Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1975)
* UK professional registration is mandatory
* Employer: Billingham and Norton Primary Care Network, Abbey Health Centre, Finchale Avenue, Billingham, County Durham, TS23 2DG
* Website: bnpcn.co.uk
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