Nigel Howard

Independent Prescriber (MPharm, GPhC Registered)

GPhC Registration: 2047450 Email

Nigel is an experienced pharmacist and independent prescriber supporting Happy Pharmacy’s digital consultation service, with a focus on safe prescribing, clinical governance, and patient-centred care.

About

Nigel Howard qualified as a pharmacist in 1997 after completing his pharmacy degree at the University of Bath. He has worked across community pharmacy, hospital settings, and GP surgeries, building broad clinical experience across different healthcare environments.

For many years, Nigel owned and operated his own independent community pharmacy, where he supported local patient needs and provided expert guidance on medicines and prescribing decisions.

Today, he supports digital-first care through online consultations, ensuring patients receive prompt, confidential support that meets the same clinical and regulatory standards as face-to-face services.

Experience

1997 Graduated from the University of Bath (Pharmacy degree).
2004–2019 Pharmacist — Ticehurst Chemist.
2019–2023 Retrained in hospital pharmaceutical care.
2023–Present Prescribing Lead — Belmont Surgery (Wadhurst).
2025–Present Happy Pharmacy — Independent Prescriber.

Roles & responsibilities

Digital healthcare delivery: Conducts confidential online consultations and manages a range of conditions through digital pathways.
Clinical governance & regulatory compliance: Prescribes within competence and aligns with GPhC and relevant clinical guidance; contributes to quality assurance and safety processes.
Collaborative working: Works with the wider pharmacy team and liaises with NHS services or clinicians when escalation is required.
Education & development: Maintains CPD and stays up to date with prescribing safety, guidance, and regulatory updates.

Specialist areas

Pain management and opioid reduction
Prescribing safety and medicines optimisation
Digital consultations and treatment suitability assessment

Qualifications & memberships

Pharmacy degree – University of Bath (Qualified 1997)
General Pharmaceutical Council registration (since 1997) – GPhC register entry
Multidisciplinary vocational 2-year training (Masters level postgraduate qualification) – 2022
CPPE GP Primary Care Pharmacy Education Pathway – 2024

Scope of services

Nigel provides prescribing support across weight management, hair loss, skin conditions, sexual health, and minor infections. He supports individualised prescribing decisions during consultation, considering medical history, current medication, and relevant risk factors.