Policy Unpacked

In this episode of Policy Unpacked, Maya Asher-Jones is joined by Dr Jihad Malasi and Yijun Yoon to explore the key findings from Global Policy Network’s latest report, “Shaping the Future of Primary Care: Priorities and Challenges Over the Next Decade.”Drawing on insights from a high-level roundtable at HETT London, this conversation unpacks the structural and cultural challenges facing primary care systems, and the opportunities to build a more integrated, preventative, and patient-centred model for the future.Together, they explore what fragmentation looks like in everyday practice, why prevention remains difficult to embed despite widespread consensus, and how voluntary and community organisations can be better supported as core partners in care delivery. The discussion also examines the role of digital transformation, and why maintaining human connection is essential to delivering effective and equitable care.The episode brings together clinical experience, policy insight, and emerging perspectives to offer a grounded and forward-looking view of primary care reform.In this episode, we cover:- Why a structurally unified system can still feel fragmented in practice- What meaningful integration could look like without dismantling existing models- The challenges of shifting primary care towards prevention- The role and fragility of voluntary and community sector organisations- Digital transformation and the risk of widening health inequalities- Why human relationships remain central to effective careGuests:Dr Jihad Malasi, GP, NICE MedTech Committee Member, and ICS Mental Health Clinical Lead (East Kent)Yijun Yoon, Global Policy Network FellowAdditional credits: Questions written by Nabeel Sayed🎧 Listen now and explore how primary care can evolve to meet the challenges of the next decade.📄 Read the full report: ⁠https://www.globalpolicynetwork.com⁠/reports

In this episode of Policy Unpacked, a podcast by the Global Policy Network (GPN), we explore the findings of the policy report “The Role of Medicines in the 10-Year Plan.”This series was inspired by an invitation-only roundtable hosted by GPN on 25 June 2025, chaired by Yousaf Ahmad, GPN Advisor and ICS Chief Pharmacist.The official policy report from this roundtable will be published on 7 October 2025, capturing the discussions, insights, and recommendations from system leaders across pharmacy, the NHS, and industry.To unpack the key findings, Ameneh Ghazal Saatchi, Founder and CEO of Global Policy Network, is joined by Maria Nasim, GPN Associate and Regional Market Access Director, Academic Clinical Fellow, Editor at EAHP, and Core20PLUS5 Ambassador at NHS England, alongside Stephen Riley, GPN Associate and Deputy Regional Chief Pharmacist for Pharmacy Integration at NHS England Northwest.Together, they reflect on what the report reveals about pharmacy’s role in delivering the NHS 10-Year Plan and what must change to unlock its full potential.In this episode, we discuss:Why a dedicated focus on medicines and pharmacy was needed nowWhat it means for pharmacists to work “at the top of their licence” and how the system can better support thisHow new and existing prescribers can be enabled through infrastructure, leadership, and cultureThe persistent silos between community, hospital, and primary care pharmacy and how to break them downLeadership models required to reposition pharmacy as a core pillar of integrated careHow to cultivate the next generation of pharmacy leadersThe role of digital integration and data access in delivering safer, more patient-centred careKey barriers to pharmacy integration identified through the roundtablePharmacy’s position in the NHS digital transformation agendaThe role of industry in supporting implementation of the report’s recommendationsHow the findings resonate beyond the UK and lessons for global health systemsWhat success would look like if the recommendations were implemented nowThe risks of inaction and who stands to lose if pharmacy remains underutilisedHow stakeholders can engage in the next phase of the GPN roundtable and policy seriesKey ThemesMedicines optimisation as a strategic system leverEmpowering pharmacy professionals and prescribersBreaking down silos across the health systemLeadership and cultural change in pharmacyDigital integration and data-enabled careAligning policy ambition with frontline realitiesGlobal Policy Network: www.globalpolicynetwork.com

In this episode of Policy Unpacked, a podcast by the Global Policy Network (GPN), Ameneh Ghazal Saatchi is joined by Stephen Riley, GPN Associate and Deputy Regional Chief Pharmacist for Pharmacy Integration at NHS England Northwest, to reflect on the key insights from the Medicines in the NHS 10-Year Plan podcast series.This episode brings the main part of this series to a close, drawing together lessons from system leaders across community, hospital, and primary care pharmacy, and examining what the NHS 10-Year Plan means in practice for medicines, workforce, and patient care.The key roles and opportunities for community pharmacy under the NHS 10-Year PlanWhere hospital pharmacy can have the greatest impact over the next decadeThe central role of medicines optimisation and why it underpins system reformThe importance of pharmacy system leadership in delivering the ambitions of the PlanWhat the pharmacy workforce needs to look like to meet future demandProfessional development opportunities for pharmacists across clinical, leadership, and advocacy rolesThe evolving role of pharmacy technicians and how their contribution can be strengthenedChanges in education and training for pharmacists and technicians and how these can be built uponMaintaining a patient-centred focus while operating within constrained resourcesThe role of pharmacists within neighbourhood-based, multidisciplinary teamsThe biggest challenges and risks facing the pharmacy professionWhether the profession is ready to deliver what the NHS 10-Year Plan requiresWhat pharmacy services could look like as the Plan is realisedReflections on optimism, realism, and readiness across the sectorKey moments and standout insights from across the seriesWhere GPN should take the NHS 10-Year Plan podcast series nextKey ThemesMedicines optimisation as a system-wide enablerCommunity and hospital pharmacy transformationWorkforce development, capability, and sustainabilityPharmacy leadership at neighbourhood, system, and national levelPatient-centred care within integrated servicesDelivering long-term policy ambition through frontline practiceFollow GPN and Learn MoreGlobal Policy Network: www.globalpolicynetwork.comLinkedIn: /global-policy-network

In this episode of Policy Unpacked, a podcast by the Global Policy Network (GPN), host Stephen Riley is joined by Sarah Trust, an experienced clinical pharmacist and healthcare leader, to explore the future of primary care pharmacy through the lens of the NHS 10-Year Plan.In this episode, we discussSarah’s career journey into clinical pharmacy, leadership, and national policy rolesKey experiences and challenges that shaped her progression beyond frontline practiceAdvice for early-career pharmacists considering leadership and policy pathwaysWhat success looks like for primary care pharmacy by 2035 under the NHS 10-Year PlanThe role of primary care pharmacy in prevention and medicines optimisationDeprescribing as an emerging priority and the barriers to implementing it at scaleBalancing patient-centred care with financial and system pressuresThe impact of collaborative working on patient outcomes in local systemsWhat makes effective industry partnerships work and where they can fall shortHow training for pharmacists entering primary care is evolving to support the three shifts in the NHS 10-Year PlanSarah’s role as a GPN Associate and what she brings to the networkKey ThemesLeadership and career pathways in primary care pharmacyPrevention, medicines optimisation, and deprescribingPatient-centred care and value-based decision makingCollaborative working across primary care systemsWorkforce development and training reformStrengthening the influence of pharmacy in primary careGlobal Policy Network: www.globalpolicynetwork.comLinkedIn: /global-policy-networkJoin the conversation.

In this episode of Policy Unpacked, a podcast by the Global Policy Network (GPN), host Stephen Riley is joined by Uzo Ibechukwu, Chief Pharmacist at Royal United Hospitals Bath and former ICS Chief Pharmacist for Bath, Swindon and Wiltshire, to explore what the NHS 10-Year Plan means for hospital pharmacy. In this episode, we discuss: Uzo’s career journey into senior pharmacy and system leadership The biggest challenges facing hospital pharmacy today Strategic priorities for hospital pharmacy over the next decade The ambitions of the NHS 10-Year Plan for hospital pharmacy Workforce development and continuous professional development (CPD) The expanding role of hospital pharmacists within multidisciplinary teams How the NHS’s three strategic shifts could address hospital sector challenges Digital transformation in hospital pharmacy, including medicines optimisation and personalised medicine Barriers to data sharing and technology implementation Supply chain resilience and medicines safety in hospital settings Cross-sector collaboration between hospital and community pharmacy Hospital pharmacy’s contribution to system-wide healthcare reform Key Themes: Leadership and career pathways in hospital pharmacy Workforce capability, education, and sustainability Medicines optimisation and patient safety Digital innovation and data integration System working across hospitals, ICSs, and community care Delivering policy ambition through frontline practice   Follow & Learn More: Global Policy Network: www.globalpolicynetwork.com  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-policy-network/  Join the conversation: 

The Potential of Scaling Independent Prescribing in Community PharmacyA Roundtable DebriefIn this episode of Policy Unpacked, Global Policy Network CEO and Founder Ameneh Ghazal Saatchi is joined by Shilpa Shah and Stephen Riley to unpack the findings of GPN’s latest policy report, The Potential of Scaling Independent Prescribing in Community Pharmacy.Drawing directly from the roundtable that informed the report, the conversation explores why community pharmacy is clinically ready to scale independent prescribing, yet remains constrained by structural, commissioning and workforce barriers.Why the NHS is underutilising trained community pharmacist prescribersThe structural gaps in commissioning, supervision and workforce planningInternational models from Scotland, Australia and New Zealand and what the UK can learnThe critical role of pharmacy technicians in unlocking pharmacist capacityBalancing national commissioning frameworks with local flexibilityBuilding trust and clinical integration between community pharmacy and general practiceWhat the NHS 10-Year Plan must deliver to enable pharmacists to work at the top of their licencePractical policy levers to create momentum, including the report’s Start, Stop, Scale frameworkThis episode moves beyond aspiration to action, framing independent prescribing as an actionable reform that can strengthen primary care, improve access for patients and deliver system-wide value. The discussion highlights the leadership decisions and cultural shifts required to translate policy ambition into sustainable implementation.Shilpa Shah, Chief Executive Officer, North East London Local Pharmaceutical Committee and Chair of the RoundtableStephen Riley, Deputy Regional Chief Pharmacist for Pharmacy Integration, NHS England North WestThe Potential of Scaling Independent Prescribing in Community Pharmacy is based on insights from 21 national and regional leaders across policy, commissioning and frontline practice. It sets out clear recommendations for system leaders, professional bodies and policymakers to accelerate progress.📄 Read the full report: https://www.globalpolicynetwork.com🎧 Listen to Policy Unpacked: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube

Bonus Episode 3 - Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and AstraZeneca Guests: Chris Lo, Regional Director for Europe, HKTDC Charles Chow, Head of Corporate Affairs for Hong Kong and Macau, AstraZeneca  Episode Overview: In this episode of Policy Unpacked, brought to you by the Global Policy Network (GPN). GPN’s CEO, Ameneh Ghazal Saatchi, chats with Chris Lo and Charles Chow about the key takeaways from the 5th Asia Summit on Global Health (ASGH), as well as AZ and HKTDC’s missions for collaboration. Topics include health equity, AI in healthcare, ageing populations, and how global events like ASGH drive real-world impact.   What you’ll learn: The roles of HKTDC and AstraZeneca in shaping global health policy Highlights from ASGH: AI, equity, and aging How HKTDC turns summit conversations into business outcomes What makes cross-sector partnerships work in healthcare innovation How AstraZeneca adapts global strategies to local markets What’s next for HKTDC and AstraZeneca in the coming year  Stay Connected and follow Global Policy Network on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-policy-network   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/global_policy_network?igsh=MW94NW4wdm82NHRxYg==  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ZKGD3vx5V/?mibextid=wwXIfr  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@globalpolicynetwork?_t=ZN-8xV4J5QngTm&_r=1 Find out more about AstraZeneca’s work in Hong Kong and Macau: https://astrazeneca.com.hk/index/our-company/az-in-hk9ed2.html And about the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, including their work on the Asian Summit on Global Health HKTDC: https://aboutus.hktdc.com/ ASGH: https://www.asiasummitglobalhealth.com/conference/asgh/en  You can find more episodes of Policy Unpacked on: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@globalpolicynetwork Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/27G4MszPLpmJ3AGV1mRBk6?si=ATqmrvO4RD2g_YPa9ygXWg  Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/4eDJtgl #PolicyUnpacked #GlobalPolicyNetwork #GPNPodcast #BonusEpisode #ASGH2025 #GlobalHealth #HealthEquity #HealthInnovation #PublicHealthPolicy #HealthcarePartnerships #HKTDC #AstraZeneca #ASGH #HongKongTradeDevelopmentCouncil #AZHongKong #CrossSectorInnovation #SustainableHealthcare #HealthTech #FutureOfHealth #GlobalCollaboration

In this episode of Policy Unpacked, we continue the series, “Medicines in the 10-year Plan”. Stephen Riley sits down with Shilpa Shah, discussing the role of community pharmacy in the NHS 10-Year Plan.This series was inspired by our UK Roundtable titles "Medicines in the 10-Year Plan", chaired yesterday by Yousaf Ahmad. To get involved with future roundtables, follow GPN on social media and look out for upcoming announcements. Community Pharmacy Role in Prevention and Access to Care How community pharmacies are supporting preventative care in line with the NHS 10-Year Plan. Public health services delivered by pharmacies that directly impact early intervention. The role of community pharmacies in reducing barriers and improving patient access, particularly for underserved groups. Overcoming Barriers and Strengthening Integration The impact of financial pressures on community pharmacy’s ability to meet preventative care goals.Opportunities for collaboration with GPs, hospitals, and wider providers in integrated care systems.Policy and commissioning changes needed to strengthen pharmacy’s contribution to prevention and access Demonstrating Impact and Enabling Innovation Real-world examples of community pharmacy-led initiatives improving population health. How digital tools and technology are enabling more effective delivery of preventative services. The importance of demonstrating measurable impact to secure pharmacy’s role in the future NHS. Preparing For The Future Of Community Pharmacy Workforce development and training needed to expand pharmacy’s preventative and public health role. The biggest opportunities and challenges ahead for community pharmacies in delivering the 10-Year Plan. Reflections on moving pharmacy from “sickness to prevention” and meeting future expectations. KEY THEMES Community Pharmacy Role in Prevention and Access to Health Care Overcoming Barriers and Strengthening Integration Demonstrating Impact and Strengthening Innovation Preparing For the Future of Community Pharmacy Listen Now and subscribe for new episodes each week. Learn More Explore our work at globalpolicynetwork.com or email us at [email protected]

In this episode of Policy Unpacked, we continue the  “Medicines in the 10-year Plan” series. Steohen Riley, GPN Advisor sits down with Yousaf Ahamad, Chief ICB Pharmacist for Frimley Intergrated Care Board.  To get involved with future roundtables, follow GPN on social media and look out for upcoming announcements. The Role Of Chief Pharmacist 1. How the Chief Pharmacist role has evolved to meet the challenges of modern healthcare. 2. Key leadership responsibilities in ensuring safe, equitable, and innovative pharmaceutical care. 3. The impact of digital transformation and the opportunities it creates for pharmacy leadership. Medicines Optimisation In Practice 1. Defining medicines optimisation and exploring whether the term itself causes confusion. 2. Challenges faced in the implementation of medicine optimization strategies. 3. The impact of medicine optimization in the improvement of patient outcomes and system efficiency. 4. The role of medicine optimisation in the NHS 10 year plan Icb Systems And Collaborations 1. How the ICBs can collaborate with different providers to deliver key shifts as outlined in the NHS 10 year plan. 2. Governance and alignment strategies to ensure shared goals across the system. 3. Real-world examples of cross-provider collaboration delivering tangible progress. The NHS 10 Year Plan and the Role of Pharmacy  1. Opportunities and future pathways to deliver the ambitions of the 10-Year Plan. 2. The growing role of community pharmacy in patient care and system transformation 3. Exploring pharmacy’s role in achieving the shifts from treatment to prevention, and analogue to digital KEY THEMES The Role Of Chief Pharmacist Medicines Optimisation In Practice Icb Systems And Collaborations The NHS 10 year plan and the Role of Pharmacy  Listen Now YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@globalpolicynetwork Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/27G4MszPLpmJ3AGV1mRBk6?si=ATqmrvO4RD2g_YPa9ygXWg Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/4eDJtgl Subscribe for new episodes each week. Learn More Explore our work at globalpolicynetwork.com or email us at [email protected]   

In this episode of Policy Unpacked, we introduce the next series, titles “Medicines in the 10-year Plan” We sit down with Stephen Riley, GPN Associate and Deputy Regional Chief Pharmacist, who will be hosting this series. Together, we explore how the NHS 10-Year Plan places medicines at the heart of healthcare strategy, from hospital pharmacy to the transformative potential of technology. This series builds on the knowledge that we gathered during GPN’s roundtable series ‘Medicines in the 10-Year Plan”.  To get involved with future roundtables, follow GPN on social media and look out for upcoming announcements. 1. The NHS 10 year Plan What excites Stephen the most about the NHS 10 year Plan Stephens perspective about the challenges facing pharmacy  2.  Work force development and professional role The impact of the NHS 10 year plan in the role of pharmacy  The importance of continuous professional training, leadership pathways, and stronger representation for pharmacists. 3. Digital Transformation and innovation Innovative practices that are reshaping pharmacy services and improving patient care. How digital prescriptions and new technologies are streamlining operations and boosting efficiency. 4. System wide Collaboration and public health The role of medicines professionals in preventive care, chronic disease management, and collaborative healthcare. How local pharmacies can drive community health through initiatives like vaccination campaigns and patient engagement. 5. Challenges & Regulatory Environment The efforts being put in place to improve patient access to medicines and tackle supply chain challenges. The impact of regulatory changes and pharmacist feedback on continuous improvement. 6. Future outlook Stephen's thought on Whether the NHS 10-Year Plan is ambitious enough for the future of pharmacy. Why diverse perspectives from pharmacy professionals will be key to shaping the next decade. KEY THEMES Medicines at the Core of NHS Strategy Redefining the Pharmacy Workforce Training & Professional Development Digital Innovation in Pharmacy Collaboration & Public Health Challenges & Regulation Listen Now YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@globalpolicynetwork Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/27G4MszPLpmJ3AGV1mRBk6?si=ATqmrvO4RD2g_YPa9ygXWg Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/4eDJtgl Subscribe for new episodes each week. Learn More Explore our work at globalpolicynetwork.com or email us at [email protected]    

In this episode of Policy Unpacked, host Ameneh Ghazal Saatchi (Founder & CEO of the Global Policy Network) is joined by two GPN leaders: Maya Asher-Jones and Francis Tettechu.Maya, the lead of the Policy Unpacked podcast, brings her background in politics, international relations, and international journalism into guiding the conversations you hear every week. Having started as a GPN trainee and nearly completing her fellowship, she represents the growth opportunities available within the network.Francis, a Medical Laboratory Scientist and lead of the GPN social media team, was the first to complete the fellowship scheme. With his strong interest in health policy and a technical background from the University of Cape Coast in Ghana, Francis brings a unique perspective to shaping GPN’s global communication efforts.Francis’s journey into medical laboratory science and how it connects to his policy work.Maya’s path from academia and journalism to leading Policy Unpacked.Their shared passion for health policy advocacy, and how their academic and professional backgrounds shaped their perspectives.Reflections on the GPN Fellowship: expert-led training, mentoring, and standout projects.Lessons in leadership from moving through Global Policy Network.What health policy changes they’d prioritise in Ghana and the UK.Networking strategies, mentorship advice, and future aspirations.Who inspires themWhat they envision for their future careersGuests they’d love to hear on Policy UnpackedFollow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.Or email us at [email protected]#PolicyUnpacked #GlobalPolicyNetwork #HealthPolicy #LeadershipDevelopment #PolicyFellowship #PublicPolicy #FutureLeaders #GlobalHealth #HealthcarePolicy #Sustainability #EducationPolicy #PolicyPodcast #CareerGrowth #PolicyAdvocacy #GPNFellowship

In this episode of Policy Unpacked, we sit down with Minesh Parbat, ICS Chief Pharmacist at NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin ICB, and a leading voice in pharmacy transformation. We explore his personal journey, his current leadership role, and the future of pharmacy policy and workforce development. Minesh offers deep insight into the evolving role of pharmacists, the impact of policy, and the importance of wellbeing and leadership in the sector. Episode Breakdown Intro and Personal Insight The inspiration behind Minesh pursuing a career in pharmacy Early career influences that shaped his view of the profession His journey to becoming an ICS Chief Pharmacist What a typical day looks like in his role Interests and passions outside of work Policy Perspectives How the Chief Pharmacist role has evolved Barriers to implementing policy effectively Anticipated reforms in the health sector and their impact on pharmacy The role of technology in improving efficiency and outcomes The single biggest priority for the pharmacy profession today Workforce and Wellbeing The growing importance of workforce wellbeing and the role of pharmacy leaders The public’s perception of pharmacy post-COVID Leadership strategies for long-term workforce sustainability Advice for early career pharmacists GPN and Final Reflections What excites Minesh about GPN’s vision What listeners can expect from his work at GPN What sets GPN apart from other healthcare policy think tanks Quick Fire Round A fast-paced close to the episode with personal and professional insights Key Themes Personal Insight Policy Perspectives Workforce and Wellbeing GPN and Future Vision Listen Now YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@globalpolicynetwork Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/27G4MszPLpmJ3AGV1mRBk6?si=ATqmrvO4RD2g_YPa9ygXWg Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/4eDJtgl Subscribe for new episodes each week. Learn More Explore our work at globalpolicynetwork.com or email us at [email protected]    

In this episode of Policy Unpacked, we sit down with two GPN leaders from opposite sides of the globe and at different stages in their careers. James Malgwi, a seasoned pharmacist and public health specialist based in Nigeria, and Leslie Ipock, an emerging leader and graduate student at William & Mary University, reflect on how the GPN Fellowship has shaped their leadership journeys and commitment to access to medicines. Together, they explore what it means to build policy across generations, bridge theory and frontline practice, and drive change in diverse contexts, from conflict-affected regions to global roundtable forums. What We Cover in This Episode: Pathways into Policy ● Leslie’s academic journey and entry into global health ● James’s shift from pharmacy practice to health system strategy Leadership & Learning at GPN ● Behind the scenes of GPN’s medicines roundtable series ● Bridging theory and practice as a student leader Systems Thinking & Skill Gaps ● Gaps in pharmaceutical delivery systems in Nigeria ● Rethinking global health education and career readiness Equity, Access & Innovation ● What does equity mean on the ground in fragile settings ● How young leaders can build inclusive health systems Collaboration Across Careers ● Generational learning and interdisciplinary cooperation ● Reflections on adapting to UK healthcare systems Mentorship & Motivation ● Advice for emerging health leaders ● Why listening to youth voices matters GPN’s Unique Role ● What drew them to GPN and what they’re building ● Why GPN stands out in the policy space Key Themes Global Policy Network Fellowship | Youth & Early-Career Leadership | Medicines Access | Pharmacy Systems in LMICs | Intergenerational Collaboration | Global Health Equity | Public Health Strategy | Mentorship in Global Health🔗 Available now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts & YouTube 🌍 Learn more: www.globalpolicynetwork.com 📧 Contact: [email protected] #PolicyUnpacked #GlobalHealth #PharmacyPolicy #YouthLeadership #EquityInHealthcare #NigeriaHealth #MedicinesAccess #GPN #BonusEpisode #HealthcareInnovation 

In this compelling episode of Policy Unpacked, we speak with Azuka Okeke, an innovator in pharmaceutical systems strengthening and health supply chains across Africa. As CEO of ARC_ESM, Azuka leads strategic initiatives to transform how essential medicines are distributed, especially in resource-limited settings. She shares her journey into public health and pharmacy, reflects on personal resilience, and discusses how global partnerships, inclusive leadership, and data-driven innovation are reshaping Nigeria’s pharmaceutical landscape. What We Cover in This Episode: 1. Azuka’s Journey & Leadership How she entered pharmacy and public health Leading through personal and professional challenges 2. Strengthening Supply Chains Systemic barriers and promising tools improving delivery How ARC-ESM is transforming pharmaceutical logistics 3. Global Partnerships & Innovation Collaborating with MIT, ASU, and others Opportunities for Nigerian pharma over the next five years 4. Pharmacy Workforce & Access Why pharmacists must lead system change Their role in improving care for women and children 5. Equity, Quality & Local Manufacturing Ensuring fair access in underserved areas Balancing sustainability and quality in local production 6. Vision & GPN Partnership Azuka’s top priorities for system reform What excites her about joining forces with GPN Key Themes Leadership through challenge Fixing medicine supply chains Global-local partnerships Pharmacists as change agents Equity and smart innovation You can find more information about ARC_ESM at:LinkedIn: Africa Resource Center for Excellence in Supply Chain Managementhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/arc-esmTwitter (X): @ARC_ESM https://x.com/ARC_ESM?t=OVUKWtp0oAU3e8n3tYekHQ&s=09Instagram: @thearc_esm https://www.instagram.com/arc_esm?igsh=ZzM0c3A4ZWlhMzR5Follow us on socials:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/global-policy-network   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/global_policy_network?igsh=MW94NW4wdm82NHRxYg==  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1ZKGD3vx5V/?mibextid=wwXIfr  TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@globalpolicynetwork?_t=ZN-8xV4J5QngTm&_r=1 Or visit our website, www.globalpolicynetwork.com

In this episode of Policy Unpacked, we sit down with Shilpa Shah, CEO of North East London LPC and advisor to the Global Policy Network, to explore the evolving role of community pharmacy in the health and care system.We unpack leadership in pharmacy, the realities of delivering primary care at the frontline, and the importance of compassion in shaping both professional and voluntary service. From misconceptions to mentorship, Shilpa reflects on 25 years in the sector and what gives her hope for the future. Community Pharmacy Today·       What it means to lead a regional pharmacy body and what’s changed over the years·       The most pressing challenges facing community pharmacists·       Key misconceptions about the sector and how to overcome them·       Untapped potential in pharmacy services and partnerships Leadership, Charity & Compassion·       How Shilpa’s work with Samaritans and Crisis informs her professional ethos·       Bridging mental health support for pharmacists·       Lessons community pharmacy can learn from the voluntary sector The Future of Pharmacy·       The potential of scaling independent prescribing·       The role of AI and technology in transforming pharmacy practice·       Why now is the time to spotlight untapped potential in community care GPN and Final Reflections·       Shilpa’s involvement in GPN’s pharmacy roundtable series·       What excites her about GPN’s mission and the future of integrated care·       Topics we’re not talking about enough - and why they matter·       Why early career mentorship matters in pharmacy policy and practice KEY THEMESLeadership in Community PharmacyChallenges and MisconceptionsMental Health, Volunteering and CompassionFuture Innovations in CareGPN and Policy Mentorship  Listen Now and subscribe for new episodes each week Explore our work at www.globalpolicynetwork.com  

In this episode of Policy Unpacked, we sit down with Yousaf Ahmad, a national leader in pharmacy and integrated care, to explore how the digital revolution, from AI to genomics, is reshaping the future of health.We talk prescribing rights, the evolution of the healthcare workforce, and what it really means to bring care closer to communities. Yousaf shares his vision for localised, person-centred care and the role pharmacy can play in addressing health inequalities on the ground.Digital Transmission AI and Genomics·       The use of AI and Genomics within the area of personalized medicine·       How the use of AI and Genomics are empowering clinicians·       A piece of innovation in the digital health space that is under discussed at the moment.Future workforce and prescribing ·       How professionals, gaining prescribing right, shift the balance of care delivery in integrated systems.·       Redesigning pharmacy education, to prepare professionals ·       The meaning of neighborhood workings  and the role community pharmacy play in it.GPN and Final Reflection ·       What excites Yousaf about GPN's vision and mission·       A summary of Yousaf's involvement and impact in GPN·       An incite on Yousaf's involvement in the medicine policy round table and what to expect.Looking To The Future ·       What does Yousaf envisage the health care sector would look like in the nearest future.KEY THEMES·       Digital Transformation, AI and Genomics·       Future workforce and prescribing care·       GPN and Final Reflection·       Future insight on the health care sector.Listen Now Subscribe for new episodes each week. Learn More Explore our work at ⁠⁠www.globalpolicynetwork.com 

Welcome back to Policy Unpacked, a podcast by the Global Policy Network. In this episode, host Ameneh Ghazal Saatchi is joined by Stephen Riley, Deputy Chief Regional Pharmacist for Pharmacy Integration at NHS England Northwest.With over 18 years of experience, Stephen shares his reflections on pharmacy’s evolving role within the healthcare system: from community roots to national policy leadership. This episode explores how pharmacy integration, system leadership, and innovation can help deliver more equitable, localised, and patient-centred care. In this episode:What drew Stephen to pharmacy, and how his career evolvedWhat "pharmacy integration" really means on the groundHow workforce transformation is reshaping prescribing and patient careThe role of neighbourhood working and personalised servicesTackling health inequalities through pharmacyUnderappreciated innovations in clinical and digital pharmacyThe importance of collaboration between regulators, providers, and commissionersWhat gives Stephen hope about the future of health and careHis involvement with the Global Policy Network and what excites him about the missionQuickfire Highlights:The one thing Stephen would change in healthcare tomorrowHis most inspiring figureA must-read book for aspiring leadersHis shout-outs to future podcast guestsKey Themes:Healthcare integration • Community pharmacy • Medicines optimisation • Workforce development • Digital innovation • Localised care • Health equity • System leadershipListen Now Subscribe for new episodes each week. Learn More Explore our work at ⁠www.globalpolicynetwork.com 

In this episode of Policy Unpacked, we sit down with Dr Sheikh Mateen Ellahi, a national leader in pharmacy and integrated care, to explore how the digital revolution is reshaping the future of healthcare.We talk about prescribing rights, the evolution of the healthcare workforce, and what it means to bring care closer to communities. Dr Ellahi shares his vision for localised, person-centered care and the role pharmacy can play in addressing health inequalities on the ground. Enhancing Primary Care Practice Strategies that have been implemented to improve patient care and operational efficiency  The biggest opportunities and challenges that primary health care face  Impact of Primary Care Changes on Patient Safety Changes observed that have significantly impacted patient care  How to access and mitigate risk associated with this changes The role data and analytics play in improving patient care. AI In Primary Care The evolving role of AI in primary care over the next five to ten years  Application of AI in supporting GPs and improving patient outcomes  What are the essential considerations when implementing AI in primary care  GPN and Global CollaborationWhat excites Dr Ellahi about GPN's vision and mission How international collaboration enhances the impact of the health care policy Closing Thoughts and Advice Advice for healthcare professionals aiming to drive change in their practices  What is Dr Ellahi's aspirations for the future primary care in the UK  Key Themes  Strategies put in place to improve patient care and operational efficiency  Challenges facing the health care systems  The role of AI in healthcare  Conducts of primary care leaders when incorporating AI in health care practices. Listen Now Subscribe for new episodes each week. Learn More Explore our work at www.globalpolicynetwork.com 

Welcome to Policy Unpacked by Global Policy Network!Hosted by Ameneh Ghazal Saatchi, this series explores the intersection between sustainability, healthcare and education.Join us each Tuesday for more episodes!Linkedin: linkedin.com/global-policy-networkFacebook: https://lnkd.in/dUb_Cmcu Instagram: lnkd.in/duuuH_pk Email: [email protected] Website: www.globalpolicynetwork.com