Artificial intelligence (AI)

AI refers to computer systems that can perform tasks that usually require human intelligence – such as recognising speech, analysing data, or making decisions.

In healthcare, AI is being used to support clinical decision-making, automate routine tasks, and improve patient safety.

AI is already supporting pharmacy teams in a number of practical ways:

Automated alerts for patient safety

Many pharmacy IT systems now use AI to automatically flag potential issues such as:

• Drug interactions
• Allergy risks
• Duplicate therapies
• High-risk combinations (e.g. anticoagulants with NSAIDs)

These alerts help pharmacy teams make safer clinical decisions and reduce the risk of harm.

Stock management and ordering

AI-powered tools can analyse dispensing trends and stock levels to:

• Predict future demand
• Automate reordering of medicines
• Reduce waste and out-of-stock issues

Some systems also use AI to suggest optimal stock levels based on local prescribing patterns and seasonal trends.

AI-enabled “ambient scribing” tools are being trialled to:

• Transcribe spoken consultations into structured notes
• Reduce time spent on manual data entry
• Improve record-keeping and continuity of care

These tools are being explored as part of wider NHS England transformation plans.

AI can help identify patients who may benefit from pharmacy services, such as:

• New Medicine Service (NMS)
• Hypertension case-finding
• Smoking cessation support

By analysing patient data, AI can help pharmacy teams proactively offer care to those who need it most.

If you’re interested in learning more, here are some useful resources:

• AI in Practice – NHS England: Examples of how AI is being used across pharmacy and other healthcare settings
• Guidance on AI-enabled ambient scribing: NHS England’s advice on using voice-based AI tools to support clinical documentation
• New National AI Commission – GOV.UK: Government plans to make the NHS a world leader in safe, ethical use of AI
• Regulating AI in health and care – NHS England blog
• Code of conduct for data-driven health and care technology – Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC)
• NHS AI Lab – NHS England

Community Pharmacy England and the Community Pharmacy IT Group (CP ITG) are monitoring developments in AI and digital pharmacy. We are working with NHS England, DHSC and pharmacy system suppliers to ensure that any AI tools used in community pharmacy are:

• Safe and effective
• Easy to use
• Interoperable with existing systems
• Designed with pharmacy teams and patients in mind

We will continue to share updates and guidance as this area evolves.

If you have views or experiences to share about AI in pharmacy, or if you’re trialling new technologies in your pharmacy, we’d love to hear from you.

Contact us at it@cpe.org.uk

Q. Will AI replace pharmacy roles?

No. AI is designed to support pharmacy teams — not replace them.

AI tools can help with routine tasks like stock management or documentation, but they cannot replace the clinical judgement, patient care, and personal interaction that pharmacy professionals provide.

The goal is to free up time so pharmacy teams can focus more on patient-facing care.

Q. How is patient data protected when using AI?

Patient data protection is a top priority.

Any AI tools used in pharmacy must follow strict NHS and legal standards, including:

• UK GDPR and Data Protection Act 2018
• NHS England standards for secure systems
• Supplier contracts that include data protection clauses

Pharmacy teams should always check that any digital tools they use are compliant and approved for use in healthcare settings.

Q. Do I need to be an expert in technology to use AI?

No. AI tools are being designed to be simple and user-friendly.

You don’t need to be a tech expert — but it’s helpful to understand what the tool does, how it supports your work, and how to use it safely.

Training and support should be provided by your system supplier or NHS programme.

Q. Is AI already being used in pharmacy?

Yes. AI is already helping pharmacy teams with:

• Automated safety alerts (e.g. drug interactions)
• Stock forecasting and ordering
• Voice-to-text documentation
• Identifying patients for services

These tools are being used in some pharmacies and NHS pilots, and more are expected in future.

Q. Who decides which AI tools are safe to use?

AI tools used in pharmacy should be:

• Approved by NHS England or relevant bodies
• Tested with pharmacy teams
• Compliant with NHS IT standards

Community Pharmacy England and the CP ITG work with NHS England, DHSC and suppliers to make sure tools are safe, effective, and suitable for pharmacy use.