Health

Pharmacy owners express concern that such closures would deprive patients of essential care and exacerbate pressures on other sectors of the National Health Service (NHS).

December, 20, 2024-02:39

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Industry leaders have issued a warning that over one-third of pharmacies may not endure the upcoming winter without immediate financial assistance. 

Pharmacy owners express concern that such closures would deprive patients of essential care and exacerbate pressures on other sectors of the National Health Service (NHS). 

This situation arises amidst an increasing demand for assistance from customers with more complex health needs, coupled with a rise in the minimum wage and national insurance contributions for employers.

Recent polling conducted by Community Pharmacy England reveals that 96 percent of pharmacy owners are either 'concerned' or 'very concerned' about their businesses' capacity to manage the pressures of winter. 

Approximately 39 percent of respondents fear that their businesses may not survive the next few months, with 70 percent indicating that patient safety could be compromised.

The survey, which included 58 pharmacy owners or representatives from head offices, collectively overseeing 3,565 pharmacy locations across England, found that 81 percent anticipate longer wait times for medications, while 73 percent expect a decrease in service availability.

Furthermore, one-third of the respondents (33 percent) predict they will need to reduce their operating hours.

The Daily Mail has been advocating for the preservation of High Street pharmacies, recognizing their crucial role in maintaining vibrant and healthy communities.

Janet Morrison, the chief executive of Community Pharmacy England, stated, "Community pharmacies simply will not withstand another season of winter pressures. If they are allowed to fail, the repercussions for businesses, their employees, patients, the broader NHS, and ultimately the nation's health will be unimaginable."

She emphasized that years of underfunding, resulting in a 30 percent reduction in real terms, have left community pharmacies struggling for survival. 

Despite these challenges, pharmacies are committed to doing everything possible to remain operational and serve their patients, with aspirations to enhance their contributions to both individuals and the NHS in the future. However, urgent support is now essential.

A spokesperson for the Department of Health and Social Care remarked, "We inherited a broken system that is failing to support pharmacists in delivering care to their communities."