Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020, CPNI has continued to work closely with colleagues in the Health and Social Care Board (HSCB), the Department of Health (DoH), pharmacy contractors and a range of other stakeholders to ensure that community pharmacies can continue to offer vital services throughout this period of unprecedented pressure. Additionally, CPNI have utilised this time to develop new opportunities to expand the role of community pharmacy in protecting and rebuilding the healthcare system.
Changes have included the introduction of new services, adaptation of existing services and the temporary standing down and subsequent reinstatement of services based on the trajectory of the virus at various stages. An overview of some of the changes are included below, however as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve, contractors are advised to regularly check CPNI updates here and to review the latest correspondence on the HSCB, DoH and BSO websites.