Specialist medication monitoring and prescribing in primary care: case study of shared care agreements in Northern England, UK

SCAs hold potential for improving care continuity but face significant operational and systemic barriers that undermine their safety and effectiveness. Findings evidence the need for clearer role delineation, robust communication frameworks, enhanced patient engagement and integrated digital solutions. Policy-makers and healthcare leaders must address these challenges to ensure SCAs deliver on their promise of seamless, safe and sustainable care. Future research should focus on incorporating the perspectives of secondary care providers and pharmacists to develop more inclusive solutions.