Welcome to this week’s Clarity Locums healthcare update, where we break down the most relevant industry news across Ireland and the UK for pharmacists, nurses, HCAs, and GPs. From mental health trends and community pharmacy satisfaction to structural shifts in maternity care and GP services, here’s what healthcare professionals need to know.
Antidepressant Prescriptions Rise in Derry and Strabane
A new report reveals that one in four people in Derry and Strabane were prescribed antidepressants in the past year. This figure sheds light on growing mental health challenges and the increasing pressure on primary care services. Read more from Ireland Live.
Pharmacists Face Dual Challenge During Hot Weather
With rising summer temperatures, pharmacists across Ireland are tackling the dual issue of maintaining medicine safety and managing heat-related patient care. Read the full piece from The Pharmacist.
Locum Spotlight: Laurence Middleton’s Journey
From working across Ireland to interacting with world leaders, Laurence Middleton’s story is a compelling reminder of the flexibility and excitement that locum pharmacy work can offer. Read the full blog on Clarity Locums.
Community Pharmacies Earn High Marks from Patients
A new survey finds that almost 90% of patients in the UK reported a positive experience using community pharmacy services. This underscores the growing trust and importance of pharmacies in primary care. Read more via the Pharmaceutical Journal.
UK Pharmacists Manage Summer Medicine Risks
Just like their Irish counterparts, pharmacists in the UK are facing increased demand to ensure medicines are stored safely during prolonged heatwaves. Details in The Pharmacist.
Why Locuming Still Leads to Opportunity
Laurence Middleton’s journey highlights the freedom and diversity of locum life across both Ireland and the UK. Discover his experiences in this feature on Clarity Locums.
HSE Targets 7-Day Working and Diagnostic Reform
The HSE has unveiled a three-year strategy focused on introducing seven-day healthcare services and reducing reliance on unnecessary diagnostics. These changes will significantly impact nursing and HCA schedules and workflows. Full details from IMT.
Changes to Antenatal Care in Portiuncula Hospital
Higher-risk pregnancy care is being transferred out of Portiuncula Hospital, with antenatal services being restructured amid safety concerns. Read the full update from The Irish Times.
Celebrating Midwives During Breastfeeding Awareness Week
In case you missed it, Clarity Locums recently celebrated Breastfeeding Awareness Week by spotlighting the dedication of midwives and maternity nurses across Ireland. Join the recognition and read the blog here.
Patients Still Prefer GPs Over Pharmacists and Nurses
A recent study confirms that most patients still favour seeing a GP for healthcare advice over alternative providers like pharmacists or nurses, reinforcing the central role of GPs in the health system. Read more via Ireland Live.
HSE Reforms Set to Impact General Practice
The same HSE strategy pushing seven-day services will affect GP service models, particularly in diagnostics and efficiency expectations. More details via IMT.
Out-of-Hours GP Services Under Review in Munster
A review of out-of-hours GP services in Munster is underway due to workforce shortages and resourcing issues. This could reshape how urgent primary care is delivered. Read the full article from the Irish Examiner.
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