New Medicines Service

New Medicines Service

Starting a new medication can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding how to take it correctly and what to expect. The New Medicines Service is an NHS-funded scheme designed to help patients who have been prescribed a new medication for certain long-term conditions. This service ensures that you receive expert support and guidance to help you get the most from your medication while minimising any potential side effects or concerns.

At Bamboo Pharmacy, we are committed to making the transition to new medication as smooth as possible. Our team of pharmacists is here to offer professional advice, answer any questions, and provide reassurance about your new treatment plan.

What is the New Medicines Service?

The New Medicines Service (NMS) is designed for people who have been newly prescribed a medication for specific long-term health conditions. The service includes a structured consultation with a pharmacist to ensure that you understand how to take your medication correctly, monitor its effectiveness, and manage any side effects.

This service is available to patients who have been prescribed medication for conditions such as:

• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Type 2 diabetes
• Asthma and other lung conditions
• High cholesterol
• Chronic heart conditions

The aim of the service is to improve medication adherence, reduce complications, and ensure you receive the best possible health outcomes. If you are eligible, this service is completely free of charge under the NHS.

How Does the New Medicines Service Work?

The New Medicines Service follows a three-stage process, designed to provide personalised support for patients who have been newly prescribed medication.

1. Initial Consultation

Once you receive your new prescription, a pharmacist will discuss your medication with you. This initial consultation includes:

• An explanation of how your medication works and why it has been prescribed.
• Advice on how to take your medication correctly.
• Potential side effects and how to manage them.
• Addressing any concerns or questions you may have.

2. Follow-Up Consultation (7-14 Days Later)

After about a week, we will arrange a follow-up consultation to check how you are getting on with your medication. During this session, we will:

• Review how well the medication is working for you.
• Discuss any side effects you may have experienced.
• Answer any additional questions that have come up.
• Make any necessary adjustments to ensure you are comfortable with your treatment.

3. Final Review (14-21 Days Later)

A final review will be carried out to assess how well your medication is working. This is an opportunity to:

• Confirm that you are comfortable and confident in taking your medication.
• Make sure that any side effects have been addressed.
• Provide further advice on long-term management.
• Offer additional support if needed.

If any issues arise beyond this point, our pharmacists are always available to offer further advice and guidance.

Why Should You Use the New Medicines Service?

Starting a new medication can sometimes come with challenges, but the New Medicines Service is designed to help you through the process with expert support. There are several benefits to using this service:

1. Expert Support from Qualified Pharmacists

Our experienced pharmacists have extensive knowledge of medications and their effects. With this service, you will have access to professional advice tailored to your specific condition and treatment.

2. Improved Medication Adherence

Many patients struggle to take their medication as prescribed, often due to misunderstandings or concerns about side effects. The New Medicines Service helps ensure that you follow your treatment plan correctly, improving overall health outcomes.

3. Identification and Management of Side Effects

If you experience any side effects from your new medication, we can provide guidance on how to manage them. In some cases, we may suggest alternative medications or refer you to your GP if necessary.

4. Convenience and Peace of Mind

With our professional guidance, you can feel confident in your treatment and be assured that any concerns will be addressed. You won’t have to manage your new medication alone—our pharmacists will be there every step of the way.

How Bamboo Pharmacy Can Help

At Bamboo Pharmacy, we take a patient-focused approach to healthcare. Our pharmacists are dedicated to ensuring that you feel supported and informed when starting a new medication. Here’s how we can help:

Personalised Consultations

Every patient is different, and our consultations are tailored to your specific needs. Whether you need clarification on dosage, timing, or possible interactions with other medications, we will provide clear and accurate information.

Convenient and Accessible Service

We understand that accessibility is important, which is why we offer remote consultations for your convenience. You can receive expert advice from the comfort of your home without the need to visit a pharmacy in person.

Ongoing Support Beyond the New Medicines Service

Even after the NMS process is complete, our pharmacists are always available to provide additional guidance, answer questions, and ensure that your medication continues to work effectively for you.

How to Get Started

If you have recently been prescribed a new medication for an eligible condition, you may qualify for the New Medicines Service. Getting started is simple:

1. Check Your Eligibility – If you have been prescribed a new medication for conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, asthma, high cholesterol, or a heart condition, you may be eligible.

2. Book a Consultation – Contact us to arrange your initial consultation with one of our pharmacists.

3. Receive Ongoing Support – We will guide you through the process with follow-up consultations and expert advice.

Contact Us to Book an Appointment

Managing a new medication can feel daunting, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our New Medicines Service is here to provide you with the support, guidance, and reassurance you need to get the most out of your treatment.

At Bamboo Pharmacy, we are committed to helping you achieve the best possible health outcomes. If you have started a new medication and want expert advice and follow-up support, contact us today to book an appointment and take advantage of the New Medicines Service.