Services Database IV Antibiotic Stockholding Service (Halton Area)

To support admissions avoidance and early discharge for specific appropriate conditions and to improve the care of these patients by:

• Maintaining an agreed stock of medicines used to treat specific conditions such as cellulitis, respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections and Clostridium difficile at designated community pharmacies (Appendix A – drug list). This is intended for supply by community pharmacies against FP10 prescriptions issued.
• Ensuring access to the agreed stock of medicines is available during normal working hours including weekends and evenings.
• Designated community pharmacies signposting carers and healthcare professionals to other participating service providers with confirmed sufficient stock, in the event that they are unable to immediately supply the necessary medicines.
• Supporting patients, carers and clinicians by providing them with up to date information and advice where appropriate.
• Avoiding unnecessary hospital admissions where the sole purpose of admission is to access appropriate medication.