Judith Edwards
My research project
Exploration of the Implementation of Paramedic Independent Prescribing in Primary Care
A mixed-methods, two phase multiple case study exploring the implementation of paramedic independent prescribing in primary care. Phase 1 is a survey of paramedics in advanced roles. Phase 2 is a multiple case study using primary care sites where paramedic independent prescribing has been implemented. Data collection will include interviews, clinical and ethnographic observation and questionnaires from paramedics, team members and patients.
Research projects
A mixed-methods, two phase multiple case study exploring the implementation of paramedic independent prescribing in primary care. Phase 1 is a survey of paramedics in advanced roles. Phase 2 is a multiple case study using primary care sites where paramedic independent prescribing has been implemented. Data collection will include interviews, clinical and ethnographic observation and questionnaires from paramedics, team members and patients.
My publications
Publications
Paramedic practice is evolving and the number of advanced paramedics in primary care roles in the UK has risen dramatically. A significant milestone for the paramedic profession, recent legislation granting paramedics independent prescribing rights means UK paramedics are the first worldwide to receive this extension in scope of practice. Paramedic prescribing capability is expected to increase autonomy for independent case management and enhance capacity for service development. Local and national success is however likely to depend on skilful implementation and the avoidance of historical barriers. This article aims to raise awareness of potential barriers to early adoption of paramedic independent prescribing in primary care. It identifies common pitfalls prior to training and provides seven practical steps for paramedics considering pursuing non-medical prescribing training.
Background: Increasing numbers of nurses, pharmacists and allied health professionals across the world have prescribing rights for medicines: over 90,000 of the eligible United Kingdom workforce are qualified as non-doctor prescribers. In order to inform future developments, it is important to understand the benefits and impact of prescribing by allied health professionals including physiotherapists and podiatrists.