Increasingly, residents can now benefit from a wider team of experts and professionals at their GP practice. Here is Sofiea’s story:
“I have worked in this area for over five years. My role as Clinical Pharmacist is to review patients with long term conditions. We aim to offer preventative care that helps avoid unplanned trips to hospital.
“Day to day, I talk to patients about the medication they are taking and if we need to consider any changes that will help them. Patients can reach me through our online service; some like to come into reception, others prefer to telephone in.
“Patients benefit from my expertise in different ways depending on their needs. I deal with pain management and can optimise their medication, as well as offer follow-ups to help manage their current conditions.”
Sofiea is very passionate about preventive medicine. She loves to share her knowledge. She is well-placed to see the bigger picture when reviewing medication and can help save lives.
“I am very interested in reducing the risk of stroke and diabetes. As we know, prevention is better than cure! I educate patients to the best of my knowledge, and it produces results.
Not everyone knows that a pharmacist can discuss everything from mental health conditions to frailty. I can refer people to mental health services, weight management groups and diabetes support.”
Sofiea describes how her role fits in with the rest of the GP surgery team:
“We are a very close-knit team. The doctors are readily available with continuous support. I work closely with our healthcare assistants and nurses who perform NHS checks. If they need further support for a patient, they can come to me for advice. ”
What Sofiea loves about her role as a Clinical Pharmacist Lead are the relationships, the trust she is given, and the developing recognition of what all pharmacists can offer.
“I love meeting with patients and making a difference.”
Get the care you need quicker
Lots of work is underway to help people get quicker, easier access to important NHS healthcare services in mid and south Essex. This includes helping people to access a range of services without needing to see their GP first.
Find out moreYour GP surgery team is made up of a range of healthcare professionals with the expertise to help you with your specific health needs.
Your GP team