Today the British College of Dermatology, the educational arm of the British Association of Dermatologists, launched a series of online interactive dermatology courses aimed at community pharmacists. With six parts in total, these courses can be found at https://learning.bcd.org.uk/.

These brief but comprehensive courses for pharmacists cover:

Management of acne vulgaris
Management of atopic eczema
Management of psoriasis
Skin examination
Skin infections
Sun safety

Each course includes case studies and skin examination advice, and they can be self-reported as continued professional development. The skin infections course supports pharmacists’ delivery of Pharmacy First services, with content covering impetigo, infected insect bites and shingles.

Rod Tucker, course author and pharmacist with an interest in dermatology, said: “For many patients with skin disease, community pharmacists will be their first port of call. These new courses provide community pharmacists with the necessary skills and knowledge to advise and support patients with a skin problem.”

Barbara Mason, Director of Education of the British Association of Dermatologists said: “We are particularly excited for the creation of these courses, which we are hopeful will be of great help to community pharmacists. Our pharmacy colleagues have a vital role in the early detection of many skin diseases, including skin cancer and inflammatory skin conditions, so it is essential that they are armed with the best information and tools with which to help the public.”

Skin issues are among the most common reasons for seeking medical help in the UK; around half of people at any given time consider they have a problem.

-ENDS-

Notes to Editors

For more information, please contact the media team: comms@bad.org.uk, 07769000415.

About the BAD

The British Association of Dermatologists (BAD) is the professional membership body for dermatologists in the UK. Founded in 1920, the BAD is a registered charity representing over 2,400 members, dedicated to medical education, professional practice and standards, and research in dermatology.

For further information about the charity, visit www.bad.org.uk.

About the British College of Dermatology Education Hub

We are dedicated to developing the dermatology skills and knowledge of dermatologists, pharmacists, GPs, nurses, students, trainees, and other healthcare professionals. Our evidence-based, online courses are written and peer reviewed by clinicians.