The aim of the MMAP is to support the delivery of a medicines management service within Trusts by facilitating the development of key skills. The programme consists of three modules:
- Module 1 – The supply of medication to individual patients
- Module 2 – The assessment of patients’ own drugs (PODS)
- Module 3 – Medicines reconciliation 1 (Drug history).
The programme has been designed to be flexible and therefore a pharmacy technician may complete one or more modules at any one time if this is considered to meet the needs of the service.
The MMAP is a 3-12 month programme that begins with a half-day induction programme at the work-base. The programme also consists of pre-course activities, in-practice activities, holistic observations and the development of a portfolio to evidence developing competence. Candidates must also attend a one-day skills workshop delivered at NICPLD. Following successful completion of all components of the programme, candidates must undertake a final appraisal in order to become accredited.
To be accepted onto the programme, individuals must meet the following criteria:
- be a qualified pharmacy technician
- be registered with NICPLD
- have at least three months experience working in a clinical- or ward-based setting
- have completed the Core Skills in Medicines Management Programme
- be recommended by, and have the support of, the Trust Pharmacy Manager
- have been assigned an Educational supervisor who supports their application and is familiar with the requirements of the programme
- demonstrate a good working knowledge of local SOPs.