What Is the New Medicine Service (NMS)?
The New Medicine Service (NMS) is an NHS-based service offered in most community pharmacies. It provides additional advice and support to those who have been prescribed a new form of medication to treat an already established long-term condition. It ensures those on the medication are adhering to the changes and finding their new medicine manageable.
Those prescribed new medication will be invited to a consultation with a pharmacist to ascertain how they are getting on with their new medicine.
How Will I Know If I’m Eligible for the New Medicine Service?
The NMS focuses on providing support to patients being treated for several specific conditions:
- Asthma
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Type 2 diabetes
- High blood pressure (Hypertension)
- Conditions that affect blood clotting
The service is available only to people using medications for these conditions. If you wish to seek further advice or opt out of the service, you may be referred to a doctor for further discussion.
How Long Will Each Appointment Take?
The consultations are designed to fit around your schedule. A standard consultation takes roughly 10-15 minutes.
Your First Consultation With Us
7 to 14 days after receiving your new medicine, your pharmacist will invite you to discuss how you’ve been getting on with your new medicine. Questions will focus on your experience so far, potential side effects, your routine, and understanding.
Your Second Consultation With Us
A follow-up consultation occurs 14 to 21 days after your first. During this session, you can discuss whether you’ve found the medicine easy or difficult to take and if any side effects have developed. A third consultation may be offered if necessary, but typically, two consultations cover everything about the new medicine.
If you would like more information about our New Medicine Service or to book a 1-to-1 consultation, please visit Towngate Pharmacy, Bradford, or WhatsApp us on +44 7951 605749.
