New Medicine Service at Acorn Pharmacy in Berkhamsted
Starting a new medication can be daunting. The New Medicine Service (NMS) is a free NHS service designed to support you when you start a new medicine for certain conditions. Ask in-store about the New Medicine Service.
What is the New Medicine Service?
The New Medicine Service (NMS) is a free NHS service that provides support for people with long-term conditions who are newly prescribed medication. It aims to improve medicine adherence and is initially focused on particular patient groups and conditions.
Benefits of the New Medicine Service
The goal of this service is to improve patient adherence to treatment, thereby reducing medication wastage. It also aims to reduce hospital admissions due to adverse drug reactions by identifying them early in treatment. During your consultations with the pharmacist, you’ll also receive advice on lifestyle interventions that can help manage your condition.
Which Medicines Are Included in This Service?
If you are starting a new medicine for antiplatelet/anticoagulant therapy, asthma/COPD, hypertension, or type 2 diabetes, you might be eligible for the NMS. A member of our team will offer you this service and ask for your written consent to participate.
How Does the Service Work?
- Initial Consultation: One of our pharmacists will give you general information about your new medication and the service. They will schedule a follow-up consultation by phone or in person in two weeks.
- Follow-Up Consultation: The pharmacist will ask how you're getting on with your medication, address any issues you've encountered, and provide relevant advice and support.
- Final Consultation: The pharmacist will arrange a final meeting within one to two weeks to ensure you understand your new treatment and aren't experiencing any adverse effects.
Next time you start a new medicine, speak to a member of our team to see if you’re eligible for this service.