Pharmaceutical needs assessment (PNA)

The Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment (PNA) for NHS Dorset has been developed in accordance with the NHS (Pharmaceutical Services and Local Pharmaceutical Services) (Amendment) Regulations 2010. It is a statement of the needs of the population of the area in relation to pharmaceutical services.

The PNA is a key tool for identifying what is needed at a local level to support the commissioning intentions for pharmaceutical services and other services that could be delivered by community pharmacies and other providers. It will enable NHS Dorset and its successor organisations to undertake a number of commissioning and regulatory functions in relation to the provision of high-quality pharmaceutical services for its population.

The assessment has been made based on the Joint Strategic Needs Assessment and information that has been collated on health, demographics, social factors and current service provision. The information is considered in context with the strategic direction of the NHS and NHS Dorset in particular. The key aims of the Strategic Plan for NHS Dorset are to help people to stay healthy and provide care as close to home as possible.