SEL Transforming and Integrating Medicines Optimisation Network

Many healthcare challenges are too complex for one profession or organisation to tackle alone. They require collaboration across sectors.

In 2023, the Health Innovation Network, South London was commissioned by NHS South East London Integrated Care Board to create a system-wide network for Medicines Optimisation. This network allows pharmacy professionals to work together, share ideas and develop ways to improve how pharmacy teams function as part of multidisciplinary teams.

This initiative supports the SEL ICS Joint Forward Plan for Transforming and Integrating Medicines Optimisation and is part of the One Pharmacy Workforce Model. The network partners with the SEL Integrated Pharmacy Workforce Group to shape workforce strategy, align sectors and improve communication across care pathways.

Achievements so far

In 2023-24, network meetings focused on:

Collaborative methods and leadership skills.
Group discussions to co-design solutions to shared challenges.

Impact highlights:

Personal and professional development: 79% of participants said the network improved their professional practice.
Useful tools: Many participants applied the tools and techniques learned in their daily work.
Enhanced understanding: Participants gained insight into the interconnectedness of pharmacy roles across sectors.
Mindset shifts: Feedback showed that the network changed participants’ perspectives, encouraging an integrated approach to their roles.
Stronger collaboration: 84% felt the network amplified their voice or created a collective voice across south east London.

Two women sitting two chairs, while other people sit around them. One of the women has a microphone and is talking. Everyone listens and participates in the workshop

Quotes from participants emphasise these benefits:

“I met lots of new people. There was an energy buzz, conversations, new connections and networking to hear others’ perspectives”.
“I understand a lot more about how pharmacy works across the system and feel more aware of the priorities and challenges of other sectors”.
“This network has definitely changed my perspective and will impact how I approach my role in the future”.

Next steps

The network’s insights will shape the system-wide pharmacy workforce strategy, ensuring collaboration and effectiveness across south east London. It will continue to work closely with the Integrated Pharmacy Workforce Group to deliver the One Pharmacy Workforce Model.

Future plans include:

Strengthening cross-sector connections.
Providing resources for quality improvement.
Ensuring diverse representation from all pharmacy professionals.