Palliative and End of Life Medicines Action Plan
Do you need to complete the PQS Action Plan for Palliative and End of Life Medicines (2025/26)?
By 31st March 2026, all pharmacy owners must have a documented action plan in place to support patients when the 16 critical palliative and end of life medicines and/or parenteral haloperidol are unavailable at their pharmacy. This requirement applies regardless of whether your pharmacy routinely stocks these medicines, and is essential to qualify for payment under the Medicines Safety & Optimisation domain.
What the Action Plan Must Include:
• Awareness of any locally commissioned palliative care services, including on-call and delivery arrangements.
• A list of community pharmacies in your area that stock the 16 critical medicines, and the ability to check the Directory of Services (DoS) to locate pharmacies with stock.
• Information on where parenteral haloperidol can be accessed locally, including any commissioned services.
• Awareness of additional support services for patients, relatives, and carers.
Useful Resources to Support Your Action Plan:
• South & West Devon Palliative Care Guidance, details local services, contact details and resources
• North & East Devon Palliative Care Guidance, local services, contact details and resources
