Pharmacists in the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust are working to improve patient care through technology and specialist roles, according to information released by the Trust.

The Trust marked World Pharmacist Day by highlighting the work of its pharmacy teams across various clinical settings. Lead Pharmacist for Specialist Medicines and Homecare Services Richard Lennon said the role is about supporting patients to get the best from their medicines.

Lennon, based at the Ulster Hospital Pharmacy Department since 1999, said the Trust is exploring how the Encompass My Care app can simplify prescription requests for patients receiving specialist medicines from the hospital.

Emergency Department Lead Pharmacist Philip Lappin said pharmacists provide paramount support for patient safety in the Emergency Department. He said medication is becoming more complex and that pharmacists collaborate with doctors and nurses to provide expert advice on safe medication use and sourcing antidotes.

Trainee Pharmacist Matilda Ely Teng, who joined the team from Queen’s University in August, said she applies her university learning to individualised patient care. She said pharmacy involves medicines, clinical knowledge, and communication with healthcare professionals, with patient care as the main priority.

Pharmacists in the Trust are involved from admission to discharge, checking prescriptions, advising clinical teams, and helping patients understand their medicines, the Trust said.