Charles Walker questions the Health Secretary about measures to encourage collaboration between GPs and pharmacists and calls for her to make a statement on the issue.

Mr. Walker: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what measures she has introduced in Hertfordshire to encourage greater collaboration between GPs and pharmacists; and if she will make a statement. [61781]

Ms Rosie Winterton [holding answer 30 March 2006]: Nationally the Department has introduced a number of measures to encourage greater collaboration between general practitioners (GPs) and pharmacists, such as repeat dispensing and medicine use reviews. While support has been provided nationally, it is for primary care trusts to oversee the implementation of these new services locally. I understand there has been collaborative and educational work in Hertfordshire to encourage GPs to work more closely with pharmacists.

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