As the professional leadership body for pharmacists, RPS has given evidence at a preliminary hearing of the UK COVID-19 Inquiry.
Our statement was presented to the Inquiry by the legal team working on our behalf. We highlighted the vital role of pharmacists and pharmacy teams during the pandemic and further outlined the professional concerns we highlighted in a previous session in September.
We also set out key issues for the profession which should be considered by the Inquiry, including:
- Recognition of pharmacists as key workers.
- The resilience of pharmacy services in the event of a future pandemic or health emergency.
- The impact of medicines shortages on patient care.
- Investment in and resilience of aseptic pharmacy services.
- The welfare of pharmacy teams, including Infection, Prevention and Control guidance, risk assessments, and the provision of personal protective equipment.
- Eligibility of pharmacists for government life assurance schemes.
RPS President Claire Anderson said:
“We will continue to urge the Inquiry to recognise the key role of pharmacists and pharmacy teams across the whole of the health service during COVID-19.
“Pharmacy teams were central to supporting patient care during the pandemic, providing a lifeline for the public and maintaining vital access to medicines.
“Pharmacy teams showed tremendous dedication in extraordinary circumstances, often at great personal cost.
“With growing demand on the health service, rising numbers of medicines shortages, and ongoing workforce pressures, there are clear lessons which must be learned so we can help prepare for the future.”
Our written submission and a transcript of the hearing is available on the Inquiry’s website.
The RPS has been designated as a Core Participant of Module 3 of the Inquiry, which is examining the impact of the pandemic on healthcare systems in the UK. The Inquiry is expected to begin taking evidence in public hearings for this module in autumn 2024.
Every Story Matters
The Inquiry is inviting everyone to share their experiences of COVID-19 and views on potential lessons learned through Every Story Matters.
Medicines shortages
The RPS has launched a new project on medicines shortages. Find out more.
Listen to firsthand accounts of the impact of COVID-19 on the pharmacy profession through our museum's COVID-19 Oral History Project.
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