THE UNIVERSITY of Worcester looks set to be a centre of excellence when it comes to the training if hospital pharmacists.

A new pilot scheme will train hospital pharmacists how to diagnose and prescribe, as part of a nationwide drive to improve emergency care.

Tracy Lapworth, the university's course leader for advancing practice, said: “There is a national struggle to recruit middle grade doctors and an urgent care crisis.

"The idea is that pharmacists would be able to assess and diagnose minor injuries and illnesses, and then prescribe and dispense appropriate medication."