pharmacy business conference 2024
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Pharmacy Business Conference 2024

Pharmacy Mentor are delighted to extend a warm invitation to all pharmacy owners, pharmacists, superintendents, and decision-makers across the UK to join us at the Pharmacy Business Conference 2024. Scheduled for Sunday, April 28th, 2024, at the esteemed Hilton London Wembley, this conference promises to be a transformative event for the community pharmacy landscape.

In a rapidly evolving healthcare environment, where NHS funding is increasingly directed towards service-led contractual frameworks, pharmacy professionals face unprecedented challenges. The Pharmacy Business Conference 2024 aims to confront these challenges head-on, offering valuable insights and strategies to navigate this dynamic landscape effectively.

Register Now

 

What You Can Expect

The conference boasts a comprehensive program designed to explore the future of community pharmacy from various perspectives. Here’s a glimpse of what attendees can expect:

Insights from the NHS: Gain invaluable insights into the evolving landscape of pharmacy services directly from NHS representatives. Understanding the shifting priorities and expectations from the NHS is crucial for aligning pharmacy services with broader healthcare objectives.

Innovative Strategies from Community Pharmacy Owners: Learn from successful case studies and innovative strategies implemented by community pharmacy owners who are pioneering new business models. These insights will provide actionable ideas to adapt and thrive in a changing market.

Perspectives from Pharmacy Leaders: Engage with pharmacy leaders who will offer valuable information on industry trends, providing actionable insights to drive success. Drawing from their extensive experience, these leaders will share valuable strategies for navigating challenges and capitalising on opportunities.

Interactive Workshops: Participate in interactive workshop sessions designed to address key challenges and opportunities. These workshops will facilitate practical learning and skill development, empowering attendees to implement effective strategies in their own pharmacy practices.

Networking Opportunities: Connect with industry peers, experts, and decision-makers during the conference. These networking opportunities are invaluable for fostering collaborations and connections that can propel pharmacy practices forward.

The Highlights

One of the highlights of the Pharmacy Business Conference 2024 is the participation of our Founder and CEO, Saam Ali. With over 18 years of experience and expertise in helping pharmacists enhance their marketing and online presence, Saam will be providing attendees with invaluable insights and strategies for success in this digital age.

The Agenda

The conference agenda features an array of engaging sessions, including keynote speeches, panel discussions, presentations, and interactive workshops. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from esteemed speakers such as Duncan Rudkin, Chief Executive of the General Pharmaceutical Council, Janet Morrison, CEO of Community Pharmacy England, and other industry experts.

The agenda is carefully crafted to cover various aspects of community pharmacy, from clinical governance and OTC business growth to branding and marketing strategies. Attendees will gain practical knowledge and actionable insights that they can immediately apply to their pharmacy practices.

Here’s what you can expect:

  • 10:00 Registration / Breakfast
  • 11:00 Shailesh Solanki, Executive Editor, Pharmacy Business. Welcome speech. 
  • 10:35 Conference Chair. Why community pharmacy must create its own future.
  • 10:45 Opening Keynote. Pharmacy of Tomorrow.
  • 11:15 PANEL DISCUSSION Innovation in community pharmacy services (NHS and private)
  • 11:45 TABLE WORKSHOP Interactive table discussions utilising mobile app and action planning on the outcomes of the panel discussion.
  • 12:05 IQVIA PRESENTATION Based around data on how community pharmacists are performing, as opposed to how the multiples are performing. So what is the sweet spot in terms of where community pharmacists can operate?
  • 12:20 PRESENTATION The implications for good clinical governance when innovating community pharmacy services.
  • 12:35 Networking break (20mins)
  • 12:55 PRESENTATION Tips for growing your OTC business. 
  • 13:10 PRESENTATION More than just a logo
  • 13:30 TABLE WORKSHOP Interactive table discussions utilising mobile app and action planning on the previous two sessions
  • 14:00 Closing Keynote with questions Janet Morrison, CEO, CPE will explore the current situation and how their vision and plans will create the pharmacies of tomorrow.
  • 14:25 PANEL DEBATE Q&A with Pharmacy Leaders The panel will debate what needs to happen in the next 12-18 months to facilitate the pharmacy of tomorrow.
  • 14:55 Sum-up and close Conference Chair
  • 15:00 Lunch / networking

 

pharmacy business conference 2024

Who Should Attend

For those who are wondering whether this conference is suitable for them, the answer is simple: if you are a pharmacist, pharmacy owner, pharmacy manager, superintendent, or decision-maker, this event is tailored specifically for you. Whether you’re looking to expand your range of services, enhance your marketing efforts, or simply stay informed about the latest industry trends, the Pharmacy Business Conference 2024 has something valuable to offer.

How To Register

Registration for the Pharmacy Business Conference 2024 is free, but seats are limited. Interested individuals are encouraged to secure their place early to avoid disappointment. To register, simply visit the conference website and complete the registration form. Upon registration, attendees will receive a confirmation email with their tickets and additional information about the event.

Book Your Spot Today

The Pharmacy Business Conference 2024 presents a unique opportunity for pharmacy professionals to gain actionable insights, network with industry leaders, and equip themselves with the tools needed to thrive in the evolving landscape of community pharmacy. Don’t miss out on this chance to stay ahead of the curve and shape the future of pharmacy practice. Register now and join us for this exciting event!

Register Now
 

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The PM Academy
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The PM Academy: Supporting Pharmacy’s Digitisation

The PM Academy – The Exclusive Support Network

In the ever-challenging and evolving world of pharmacy, staying ahead of the curve is not just an option; it’s a necessity for success. As the funding continues to be cut and the landscape of community pharmacy continues to change, it’s only fitting that the industry embraces digital marketing and the transformational potential that it can provide. The PM Academy is a community built specifically for Pharmacy Owners and their teams, designed to unlock the true potential of their businesses through the power of digital marketing channels, development and technology.

JOIN NOW

Our Vision

At the heart of The PM Academy lies a vision that our entire team believes in — to “improve access to healthcare through pharmacies.” And we’re on a mission to help 1000’s of pharmacies to improve their digital ecosystems, which can allow that to happen. The PM Academy network represents a bold step towards harnessing digital tools to drive progress in the healthcare industry.

 

The Power of Community

“Together, we achieve more.” The PM Academy offers pharmacy owners and their teams a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals from the United Kingdom, USA, Australia and Canada. Imagine being part of a thriving network of pharmacy owners, all striving towards common goals, sharing ideas, and supporting each other’s growth journey. Our community makes the path to success smoother and more fulfilling.

 

 

Expertise Unleashed

Digital marketing can be complex, especially with the rapid development of the digital industry. Without the right guidance, even the most promising businesses can get lost in the chaos. But fear not, for The PM Academy is fuelled by a powerhouse of digital marketing experts, each a master of their field. Our team is armed with a wealth of knowledge and experience, ready to impart invaluable insights and strategies to elevate your pharmacy’s digital presence.

 

Resources that Empower

Access to the right resources can make or break a business. Our Academy team understands this well and offers a wide range of resources. From step-by-step guides on optimising social media marketing to in-depth tutorials on creating engaging content, the resources available in The PM Academy cater to all your digital marketing needs. We’re continuously adding in new resources to the Academy for you to benefit from.

 

The PM Academy Support

Having a support system to lean on can make all the difference, especially when you are learning about new ways to enhance your business. Our team prides itself on providing on-demand support, ensuring you never feel alone in your pursuit of success. Whether you need advice during a marketing campaign or want to discuss ideas with experts, the support team at Pharmacy Mentor has got your back.

 

the pm academy

 

The Heart of Healthcare

Behind The PM Academy lies a powerful purpose—to increase access to healthcare through pharmacies. As trusted pillars of their communities, we know that our pharmacies play a vital role in providing essential healthcare services to people both in their communities and those visiting too. By helping pharmacy owners thrive and reach their communities digitally, The PM Academy indirectly contributes to the overall well-being and health of millions of individuals. It’s a mission that goes beyond just business growth; it’s a mission that impacts lives.

 

The Future is Here

It’s time for pharmacy owners and their teams to embrace the future. The digital age offers unprecedented opportunities for growth, and our Academy stands tall as the bridge that connects ambition to achievement. In this exclusive community, concerns are addressed, businesses flourish, and the vision of a healthier communities takes shape.

 

Join The PM Academy

So, are you ready to embark on a journey of transformation? Step into The PM Academy and unlock the true potential of your pharmacy business. Embrace the power of digital marketing, harness the strength of a national and global community, and become a part of a movement that shapes the future of healthcare—one thriving pharmacy at a time. The time for growth is now, and the stage is set for you to shine.

JOIN NOW

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Building a Pharmacy Culture You’re Proud Of

Your pharmacy business begins and ends with your people. As a Community Pharmacy, the numbers say that, on average, your people are probably unhappy. Let’s look at how to flip that script.
hands on a table signifying team culture

Get everyone bought in.

What do the numbers say about Pharmacy Culture?

  • Only 17% of Pharmacy Owners think every member of their pharmacy team operates with a unique set of values they want their pharmacy to be known for, according to our Perfect Pharmacy Scorecard.
  • Pharmacy technicians rate their career happiness 2.8 out of 5 stars which puts them in the bottom 15% of careers. (CareerExplorer.com)
  • Just 16% of the 2,694 pharmacy students in a joint study between Health Education England and the Royal Pharmaceutical Society chose community pharmacy over hospital pharmacy.

This doesn’t paint a great picture of working life in a Pharmacy. There’s clearly a disconnect between top and bottom. Pharmacy Owners want their teams performing better, and the teams just don’t seem motivated.

So many pharmacists we speak to cite being short-staffed as the main problem they’re dealing with right now. Couple that with Locum rates being so high, and there’s something of a staffing epidemic in Community Pharmacy.

Changing the narrative

Most pharmacies are currently in a vicious circle. The work is stressful, the employees get stressed and demotivated. A demotivated, depressing environment isn’t appealing for prospective new team members and so you end up stuck with the demotivated, overworked team.

What we want is a virtuous circle. Creating an environment where your pharmacy team loves working makes that environment appealing for job applicants.

So how do we move from that vicious circle to a virtuous cycle? Implementing culture that incorporates your team.

Creating your Pharmacy Culture

Building a positive culture in your Pharmacy team can have numerous benefits, including:

  • Improved patient outcomes
  • Increased job satisfaction amongst team members
  • Reduced staff turnover

Here are 7 steps for building a good team culture in your pharmacy:

1. Clearly define the values and goals of the team

What kind of pharmacy do you want to be?

Remember that values and Pharmacy Culture aren’t about what you do, it’s about the way you do it.

If your team understands and buys into the mission and values of the organisation, their performance aligns parallel.

Your culture comes from the top, from your passion as a leader. This means you need passion for your values! People follow leaders for their passion and because they align with their vision. You’re the driving force of your pharmacy.

Do you show up with passion and drive every day, and lead by example?

2. Foster open communication and transparency

Encourage sharing ideas, concerns, and feedback openly and honestly throughout your team. Giving people agency and control in their role both helps their sense of worth and productivity within your pharmacy.

Do this by sharing your own thoughts and visions for your pharmacy’s strategy with your team. Sharing begets sharing.

3. Show appreciation and give recognition

Let team members know that their contributions are valued and appreciated. This is as simple as saying thank you or recognising their efforts in team meetings, but make sure it’s sincere. This small gesture goes a long way.

4. Encourage personal and professional growth

Offer your team opportunities for developing their skills and advancing their careers. People invest in their own development. Offering development opportunities makes them invest themselves with your pharmacy.

5. Promote work-life balance

Help team members find a healthy balance between their work and personal lives. This can include offering flexible work schedules or providing resources to support employee well-being.

Naturally, if you’re already short-staffed, you might feel this is impossible. You need them to work, right?

You have options.

Investing in technology and automating your team’s most repetitive or time-consuming tasks is a major solution here.

Talk to your team, let them know you’re grateful for their efforts and, whilst it’s a struggle hiring locums and/or new staff, you’re investing in taking the pressure off them.

6. Foster a collaborative and supportive work environment

Encourage team members to work together and support one another. This can include things like providing opportunities for teamwork and building strong relationships amongst team members.

Again, lead by example on this.

The junior members of your team aren’t there to lend the senior members help exclusively – and often the junior members of the team are the ones who need the most help.

7. Lead by example

I’ve said this about three times already throughout this guide, because it’s critical to your culture.

As a leader, it is important to model the behaviour you want to see in your team.

If you never take a break, it makes your team feel like they can’t take a break. That’s not setting the right tone.

Being open and transparent, showing appreciation and respect for team members, and acting with integrity? That’s setting a great tone.

We understand that life in Community Pharmacy is usually high-speed, and can be very stressful. There are external influences that make the job harder e.g. drug prices or the GP surgery not sending a patient’s RX on time. These are not within your control.

However, your “culture” is within your control, and you have the power to shape and nurture that. It’s not easy, but the rewards make it worth it for you, your team and your patients.

This article was written by JP, our Brand Content Editor who has been with PM since the early days and has extensive experience in working with multidisciplinary teams, with the help of Saam, a pharmacist by trade and our CEO, and who has extensive experience in leading teams in both the pharmacy and digital worlds.

Enjoyed this article? Sign up for our Newsletter below for more Pharmacy Growth Hacks, trends, comparison guides and get notified every time we release a new article.

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How to Delegate Effectively – The R.I.D. System

LEARN THROUGH VIDEO

LEARN THROUGH READING

Reflection

What are we going to learn?

In this module, we’re going to learn about how to delegate effectively as a pharmacist in a team.

How and why is this learning relevant?

The ability to delegate well is such an important asset for a pharmacist and leader of a team because it can significantly improve productivity in all facets of work. However, mastering delegation isn’t easy. It’s a skill that requires practice, experience and time and is something that many pharmacists struggle with, particularly in the early stages of their career and when starting in a new working environment.

Delegation is an essential part of our work. If we can delegate most of the tasks that do not require our input, our work life will improve remarkably. In this module, I’m going to show you a system I have developed called the R.I.D system, R.I.D meaning getting RID of tasks, which when implemented, will always help you delegate more successfully.

Planning and Action

Why is this learning important?

Let’s break down why this learning is important for you, your colleagues, your patients and the organisation you work for.

Pharmacist – There are so many benefits for you as a pharmacist if you know how to delegate effectively. Delegating more of your tasks to others will free up your time in the pharmacy, reduce your workload and allow you to get things done quicker. It’s a leadership skill that can take you further personally and professionally.

Colleagues – By delegating tasks to your staff, it shows that you trust them to do the job and gives them more sense of responsibility. You’ll be upskilling your team and improving overall performance.

Patients – In a well-delegated team, workplace productivity is improved and this ultimately leads to better patient satisfaction. The happier, more organised we are at work, the better a patient is served.

Organisation – And finally, your organisation is gonna love you. You’ll be seen as a solid leader amongst your team which might open up other doors for you within the company.

What can we do to delegate more effectively?

Know your staff

Before I get into the details of the RID system, it’s worth mentioning this first. If you’re going into a new place of work and want to begin delegating quickly and effectively, the best way to do so is by getting to know your staff on a personal level first. It’s so much easier to delegate a task to a dispenser when you already have a relationship with them because a level of trust has already been established. This is a fantastic reference from CarnegieCoach.com which gives you guidance on how you can build bonds with your staff quickly.

Explain the “REASONS” why the task needs doing

The first part of the RID system is to explain the “reasons” why the task your delegating is important. Too often, a task is given to a dispenser with no background to it and therefore it is:

  • Less likely to be adhered to, and
  • Seen more as an “order” rather than a meaningful task

For example, let’s say you want to delegate the job of completing an annual complaints report for your pharmacy to Jen, one of your dispensers.

Instead of saying, “Hi Jen. I need you to create this report for me, please. This needs doing then that needs doing…”

You could say “Hi Jen. I have this task that needs doing. Now, the reason behind it is that as part of our Clinical Governance requirements for pharmacy, we need to submit all of our complaints to the NHS…”

Jen might turn around and ask more about what Clinical Governance is which is great! She’s clearly interested in the job, happy to learn more and purpose is being built around it.

Outline the “INSTRUCTIONS” involved

Once you’ve explained why the reasons behind the task, you need to give them specific instruction on how to complete it. So, going back to the previous example, once you’ve explained to Jen the reasons the report needs doing, you can say something like:

“To get this done, you need to go onto this site and collate all of the information on a word document as such”.

Write the steps down on a piece of paper if Jen finds it easier and make sure each action has been understood.

Give them a “DEADLINE”

And finally, you need to give them a deadline to get the task done. By giving them a time-frame, it gives the person more responsibility for the task. So once you’ve checked their understanding of the actions involved, you could say something like:

“Great. So, I was thinking this could be done for 3pm on Thursday which gives us time to look over it. How does that sound?”

By making the deadline a question, again, you’re giving them more responsibility and ownership of the task and you can both come to an agreement together.

Trust and Support

One more thing to add here is the importance of trusting them to do the work and making sure they know you’re there for support only. Don’t keep checking up or peering over them to make sure they’re doing it right. Let them get on with it and just be there on hand if they have any questions.

Evaluation

Delegation mastery is no easy feat. It requires practice, dedication and a commitment to make it a successful habit, but applying the principles above can help you achieve this. When you know how to delegate more effectively, your work becomes more enjoyable, your team will be more productive as a whole, and you’ll be developing such an important personal skill that can be transferred into all areas of your life.

If you’re new to delegation, then begin by delegating small tasks such as admin work for MUR’s or some other paperwork you may have, but always remember the principles in this module.

Question time…

  • What problems do you have when delegating to others?
  • Do you have any tips about how to delegate better?

I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below and if you found this module useful, it would be great if you could share it with your colleagues.

Thanks for visiting and see you in the next learning module!

Saam

 

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