Services Database On Demand Availability of Specialist Drugs

Service description
1.1 This service is aimed at the supply of specialist medicines, the demand for which may
be urgent and/or unpredictable, for example palliative care, tuberculosis and bacterial
meningitis treatments.
1.2 The pharmacy contractor will stock a locally agreed range of specialist medicines and
will make a commitment to ensure that users of this service have prompt access to these
medicines at all times the pharmacy is open.
1.3 The pharmacy will provide information and advice to the user, carer and clinician.
They may also refer to specialist centres, support groups or other health and social care
professionals where appropriate.

Aims and intended service outcomes
2.1 To improve access for people to these specialist medicines when they are required by
ensuring prompt access and continuity of supply.
2.2 To support people, carers and clinicians by providing them with up to date information
and advice, and referral where appropriate.