The UK National Pharmacy Association (NPA) has issued a stark warning, stating it might recommend collective action to its 6,000 members for the first time unless the government commits to adequate new funding to manage escalating costs.
Despite pharmacies relying on the NHS for approximately 90% of their operations, including dispensing medications and vaccinations, there has been no confirmation of financial support for the years 2024-25 and 2025-26.
The NPA argues that the rise in employer’s national insurance, the national living wage, and business rates from April could compromise patient safety due to these unresolved funding issues.
Since 2017, over 1,300 pharmacies have closed, and in a recent vote, about 63% of independent pharmacies expressed willingness to reduce services if necessary.
This could lead to shorter operating hours, especially in the evenings and weekends, cessation of free home deliveries, and withdrawal of services like emergency contraception and addiction support.
Nick Kaye, the NPA chair, emphasized that the decision aims to protect patient services in the long term, suggesting that temporary reductions in access are preferable to pharmacies shutting down under financial strain.
He highlighted the urgent need for a government financial offer by April 1 to address these additional costs and mitigate a decade of real-term funding cuts.
Dr Leyla Hannbeck, chief executive of the Independent Pharmacies Association, echoed these sentiments, noting a significant reduction in operating hours among independent pharmacies due to funding shortages, which could lead to further closures.
The Liberal Democrat health and social care spokesperson, Helen Morgan, expressed deep concerns about the situation, urging immediate government action to prevent widespread impact on patient care.
In response, a Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson recognized the essential role of community pharmacies and mentioned ongoing discussions about a future financial settlement.
However, they criticized the NPA’s preemptive strike plans as potentially causing unnecessary patient disruption, urging a reconsideration of their approach.
