To improve the consistency of Homecare Services and ensure patients get the right medication they need at the right time, the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) has a set of Professional Standards for Homecare Services. Originally published in 2013, they have now been updated to reflect current practices and ensure the consistent quality of care across the full range of Homecare Services in the United Kingdom. The standards are a framework to support teams providing and commissioning Homecare Services.
They underpin patient experience and the safe and effective management of medicines across Homecare Services. Plus, these standards are intended to support developments in professional practice across the United Kingdom.
Ultimately, the standards will help patients experience a consistent quality of homecare service, irrespective of provider, that will protect them from incidents of avoidable harm and help them to get the best outcomes from their medicines.
We provided support to reshape the future of Homecare Services working together with the RPS and other key stakeholders to update the standards for Homecare Services.
The standards will enhance the following areas:
Clinical excellence: Using the standards to elevate patient care, ensuring every aspect of homecare meets the highest clinical and professional benchmarks.
Streamlined protocols: Simplifying processes and enhancing efficiency in delivering healthcare at home, helps to make the healthcare professional roles more effective and patient-focused.
Interdisciplinary collaboration: Provides a holistic approach to patient wellbeing by fostering seamless communication and collaboration among healthcare professionals and homecare teams.
Patient empowerment: Equipping patients with the knowledge they need for active participation in their care journey, promoting better outcomes.
Patient experience: Prioritising patient satisfaction and comfort in every interaction, creating a positive homecare journey that enhances overall wellbeing.
This holistic approach is crucial for delivering high-quality, patient-centred care in home settings. The new updated standards ensure a comprehensive approach with a framework focusing on both the professional aspects of Homecare Services and the patient experience. Working with RPS, we as lead author have been able to enhance the standards and promote clinical excellence in Homecare Services to create a healthier, happier community together.
View the RPS Professional Standards for Homecare Services 2024
