Working with  GP practices 

GP practices are now incentivised to reduce chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations by undertaking Structured Medication Reviews (SMRs) where eligible patients typically have a 30-45-minute review of their treatments. It is a more thorough review than a regular medication review and takes more of a holistic view of understanding how each of the treatments fit within a person’s life. 

The GP contract says GPs should “work with community pharmacies to connect patients appropriately to the New Medicines Service (NMS) which supports adherence to newly prescribed medicines”. Some GP practices may still not be fully aware of the NMS so sending them some information about this may be beneficial.