OVERVIEW

This first Forum meeting of 2026 marks the start of a new phase for the programme under PRSB’s stewardship. Building on the forum’s previous work, the session will focus on accelerating impact in connected medicines management through coordinated policy engagement, advocacy and practical delivery.

Discussions will include the programme’s direction, the initial priorities of the new interoperability working group, and how the forum can most effectively inform and influence emerging national policy initiatives such as implementation of the 10 Year Health Plan. The Forum continues to provide a trusted, non-promotional space for NHS leaders, clinicians, policymakers and industry suppliers to shape priorities and agree where collaborative action can deliver the greatest benefit.

Outcome

On 15 April 2024, the A4BC forum members held the first scheduled meeting on optimising connected medication management automated technologies, bringing together a team of Chief Pharmacy and healthcare leaders to discuss the potential of the technology and barriers preventing its uptake. In the welcoming remarks, the co-chairs highlighted the need for investment and reform in pharmacy within the NHS. Discussed were challenges of adopting connected medication management and outcomes. It was highlighted the need for procurement to be better connected along the medication and patient safety pathway in the same way clinicians and patient safety advocates are.

The briefing paper can be found within the resources section of the website.

Outcome

On Thursday 11 th July 2024, The Automating 4 Better Care (A4BC) Forum held the second
of three scheduled meetings on optimising connected medication management (CMM),
bringing together a range of professionals to discuss the evidence for the connected
medication management technology and the finance challenges to adopt this technology.
The briefing paper can be found within the resources section of the website.

Outcome

On September 24th, 2024, the Automating 4 Better Care (A4BC) Forum held the third meetings on how interoperability of technology with the medication pathway is a key factor in delivering Connected Medication Management (CMM)

Outcome

On January 30th , 2025, the Automating 4 Better Care Forum (A4BC) held the fourth meeting at the Royal Pharmaceutical Society in London. The forum discussed the priorities for the forum in 2025 and Controlled Drug management.