Publish date: 20 November 2024
We’re delighted to share that the Chiswick Primary Care Network (PCN) Pharmacy Team has been shortlisted for a national GP Award, recognising their outstanding contribution to primary care and patient health within the Chiswick PCN.
Being in the final six for such a highly competitive and nationally respected award is an incredible achievement, especially given the high standards and rigorous judging process. This nomination is a testament to the team’s dedication, resilience, and innovative approach to improving patientcare.
The Chiswick Pharmacy Team, led by Poh Long, is part of Hounslow PCNs, which officially joined the West London NHS Trust in July this year.
About the team's role in the PCN
While employed by West London NHS Trust, the team operates within the Chiswick PCN, working alongside local GP practices to deliver enhanced care to patients. This arrangement allows the team to benefit from the support and expertise of the Trust while being embedded in the PCN to address local healthcare needs. Clinical directors, who are employed by the GP practices within the PCN, provide leadership for the network and set its strategic direction.
The team’s roots go back to September 2020, when it began as a single pharmacist-led initiative. Since then, the team has grown to include six pharmacists and one pharmacy technician: Anaisa Ismail, Claudia Li, Yasmin Al Khalil, Ruth McKenzie, Ai Wei Chin, and Jenani Umasuthan.
Poh Long said: "Nothing comes on a plate. We have faced many challenges, and as individuals, we bring our own ideas and preferences to the table. But by valuing everyone’s opinions and working through disagreements constructively, we’ve forged a united team that delivers exceptional results.”
The team has demonstrated their impact through various initiatives, that range from carrying out audits and medication reviews, to helping patients manage long-term conditions. Two prime examples are the creation of the ‘BP Club’, an initiative designed to tackle undiagnosed and uncontrolled hypertension, and the establishment of a respiratory diagnostic hub for early assessments and diagnoses.
Poh added: "I am incredibly proud of the Chiswick Pharmacy Team and their commitment to collaborative, patient-centred care. Together, we prioritise trust, honesty, and mutual respect, which drives us to go above and beyond for our patients. Being part of this journey is both a privilege and a source of pride. I would especially like to thank my previous Clinical Director, Dr Nicola Burbidge, and current Clinical Directors, Dr Chloe Hillman and Mrs Sarah Herdman, for their utmost support, trust and encouragement, without which, our journey to success would not have been possible".
The winner of the award will be announced at the GP Awards Dinner on Friday 6 December.
We wish them the very best of luck!
For more information, you can read articles published by The Pharmacist and Chiswick Calendar.