Fife’s most vulnerable patients have been assured they will receive vital medication, thanks to the launch of a priority home delivery service.
NHS Fife has joined forces with community pharmacies and public and private sector organisations to deliver prescriptions to elderly and at-risk people.
From Wednesday, volunteers will collect prescription medicines from community pharmacies and hospitals and take them to people at home.
The first deliveries on Wednesday morning including prescriptions already assembled and ready for collection.
The move follows instructions from Prime Minister Boris Johnston that people should only go out when it is absolutely necessary and that vulnerable people should not go out at all.
NHS Fife director of pharmacy Scott Garden said: “We are working closely with all our partners to make sure those who need our support during this difficult time are able to access it.
“It is important to stress that this is not a service for general use.
“It has been set up exclusively for those who need it most, such as people who are self isolating and have no family member, carer or friends nearby who can collect their prescriptions for them.
“The service is likely to be inundated with enquiries and requests this week while it finds its feet, which will have an effect on community pharmacy teams.
“As such, please note, repeat prescriptions may take longer to be dispensed – please allow seven to 10 working days.
“We appreciate your patience during this time and we are working hard with colleagues in community pharmacy to provide the best service we can in uniquely challenging times.”
To access the service, phone 0800 389 6046 between 9am and 5pm Monday to Friday.
Alternatively email prescriptions@fva.org
