| Abstract: | The benefits to be gained from closer relationships between academia and practice were given official endorsement in Britain in the independent Nuffield report into pharmacy and in a circular issued by the Department of Health. Hospital based academic pharmacy practice units (APPUs) were recommended. This paper examines the planning and development of such units and the threats and opportunities presented. The experiences gained in directing a hospital-based unit serving a complete region (Mersey) are provided. Nationally it is shown that APPUs differ in rate of development, organisational structure, relationships and financial support. Their differences are outweighed by their common purpose to improve pharmacy practice by linking academia and practice. |
