The NPS is an Australian, non-profit organization supporting the Quality use of Medicines. NPS operates independently of government and the pharmaceutical industry. NPS works with doctors, pharmacists, other medical specialists and heath professionals, government, industry and consumers to improve the health of all Australians.NPS has been operating since May 1998 and is a membership-based public company, comprising 44  member organizations.The information provided is based on critical analyses of current evidence and is consistent with nationally recognized guidelines. It is reviewed by independent researchers  and experts in clinical pharmacology, medicine, general practice and communication.The purpose is to support the best use of medicines in order to improve health and wellbeing.NPS has a vision to:

• Achieve improvements in health through better use of medicines
• Help develop and implement the body of knowledge on QUM
• Provide innovative & relevant QUM services for health professionals and consumers.
• Be a reliable and sought-after source of independent information on medicines.

NPS Services and Resources.

1. Therapeutic Advice and Information Service (TAIS)
2. NPS News
3. Prescribing Practice Review (PPR)
4. NPS clinical audits and pharmacy practice audits.
5. NPS Case studies
6. Australian Prescriber
7. NPS RadarIn addition there are services and resources for consumers- Medicine Line, Medimate brouchers and Medicines Talk.

Role of Facilitator

NPS currently has agreements with the majority of the 119 divisions of general practice to deliver NPS activities at a local level.In our division the facilitator is employed on a part-time basis.Facilitator activities include- 

1. Educational visiting- To GPs, Pharmacists, general practice Nurses
2. Small group meetings with case study discussions
3. Locally coordinated NPS clinical audits
4. Newsletter items to GPs.
5. Community QUM presentations e.g. Common colds need common sense