Hours of learning: 5.5

Tutor(s) Ms Michelle McVerryDr Jane Whiteman, Clinical Pharmacist, BHSCT.

Aim
By reviewing the evidence base relating to rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases, to equip pharmacists to optimise the use of medicines in patients with these conditions.

Intended learning outcomes
Having completed this workshop you should be able to:

• List the typical symptoms associated with these conditions
• Understand the impact of rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases on both quality of life and life expectancy
• Promote the evidence based management of these conditions, including the non-pharmacological management
• Support the ongoing monitoring required for some drugs used in the management of these conditions
• Optimise medicine usage in patients with rheumatic and musculoskeletal disease.

For whom
Rheumatic and musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) are a diverse group of diseases that commonly affect the joints, but can also affect the muscles, other tissues and internal organs. There are more than 200 different RMDs and these diseases can have a major impact on both quality of life and life expectancy. This workshop is for all pharmacists who wish to contribute more effectively to the optimisation of medicines in patients with these conditions.