Primary Care Networks (PCNs)

NHS England has significant ambitions for Primary Care Networks (PCNs), with the expectation that they will be a key vehicle for delivering many of the commitments in the long-term plan and providing a wider range of services to patients. The networks will provide the structure and funding for these services to be developed locally, in response to the needs of the patients they serve.

PCNs are based on general practice registered lists, typically serving natural communities of around 30,000 to 50,000 patients. They should be small enough to provide the personal care valued by both patients and healthcare professionals, but large enough to have impact and economies of scale through better collaboration between general practices and others in the local health and social care system, including community pharmacies. It is important that community pharmacy teams are fully involved in the work of their PCN.

This short NHS England animation explains the concept of PCNs and how this new way of working enables health and other services to work together to provide better access for patients.

More information

• This briefing document provides information on supporting primary care network for pharmacy teams.
• PCNs in Surrey and Sussex
• Contact lpc@communitypharmacyss.co.uk