In March 2008 the PCPA and NPA invited PCTs and LPCs to apply jointly for an MUR support and evaluation programme. The programme has been designed to:

1. Create examples of good practice to support implementation of high quality MURs that can be replicated in other localities
2. Create an evidence base to show the benefit of MUR intervention.

In June we received 19 joint applications for the four sites available, and were encouraged by the high standards shown by all entries. The successful joint PCT and LPC applicants chosen by an expert panel were:

1. Blackpool
2. East Riding and Hull
3. Warwickshire
4. Bradford and Airedale

A National meeting was held in the summer to brief the project leads for each site on the detail of the programme and allow input into the design of local activities.

Recruitment to the programme in each locality has begun, to date around 80 pharmacies across the four sites have signed up. Encouragingly the representation of pharmacies across the whole sector has been strong.

A spokesperson for the programme commented:

"The collaborative approach between LPCs and PCTs is paying dividends already with a genuine enthusiasm from all sides to get the most out of MURs. We look forward to sharing the results of the project with colleagues in 2009"

This programme has been funded by Pfizer Limited as a service to medicine.

The Primary Care Pharmacists Association (PCPA) was established in 1998 as a support organization for pharmacists working in primary care and is now the largest independent organization dedicated to supporting pharmacists working within primary care.

National Pharmacy Association