How this pharmacist developed a respiratory clinic

We caught up with the Pharmacist/Pharmacy Team of the Year Award shortlist ahead of this year’s General Practice Awards ceremony to be held on 5 December at the Novotel London West. Specialist respiratory pharmacist Nazir Hussain, based in Dudley, West Midlands, shares the work around his one-stop clinic

‘This past year has been challenging but incredibly rewarding,’ says specialist respiratory pharmacist Nazir Hussain. His words reflect a year of significant progress in community respiratory care – and a service model that is reshaping how patients receive support closer to home.

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Mr Hussain has developed a pharmacist-led one-stop respiratory clinic in Dudley that is transforming how asthma and COPD are diagnosed and managed in primary care. The service is achieving the aims it was created for – to improve access, reduce inequalities and deliver joined-up care for patients who often face long waits or fragmented treatment.

By offering diagnostics such as spirometry and FeNO testing within GP practices, Mr Hussain has made it easier for patients to receive early diagnosis and specialist care within the community.

His patient-centred approach supports people with complex needs – including those with learning disabilities, mental health conditions and frequent hospital admissions – helping them to understand and manage their health more confidently.

The model has improved outcomes for patients while easing pressure on GPs and secondary care services. In addition, closer collaboration with respiratory specialists has accelerated access to biologic treatments for those with severe asthma, while personalised care plans and education have reduced exacerbations and emergency admissions.

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Mr Hussain’s work has since been replicated across Birmingham and Solihull, with a paediatric pilot developed alongside Birmingham Children’s Hospital.

Reflecting on the journey, he says: ‘Working to improve the lives of some of our most vulnerable respiratory patients has been a truly transformative experience.’

And on his shortlisting, he says: ‘Being recognised as a finalist is humbling, and winning this award would be a wonderful acknowledgement of the dedication that drives me every day.’

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This is the fourth of six shortlisted entries for Pharmacist/Pharmacy Team of the Year at the General Practice Awards. The winners will be revealed at the awards ceremony on Friday 5 December at the Novotel London West. If you’d like to be there on the night you can find out more here and book tickets here.