RPS England co-hosted a ‘Future of Pharmacy’ event in Parliament on Tuesday to highlight the vital contribution of pharmacists and pharmacy teams to the health of the nation.
MPs and Peers attended the event to hear directly from frontline pharmacists about the potential for community pharmacies to help the NHS address healthcare backlogs and improve access to primary care.
A letter to the Prime Minister signed by Parliamentarians was later handed into Downing Street, warning of possible closures if community pharmacies are not given the necessary support and resources.
The event was co-hosted by the Association of Independent Multiple Pharmacies, the Company Chemists' Association, National Pharmacy Association, the Pharmaceutical Services Negotiating Committee, and the Royal Pharmaceutical Society.
RPS England Chair Thorrun Govind said:
“Pharmacists have provided a lifeline for patient care throughout the pandemic and, with the right support, will play a key role in the NHS of the future.
"There is a huge opportunity for community pharmacy to help care for people closer to home, reduce health inequalities, and support the growing number of people living with long-term conditions.
"Exciting advances in personalised medicines and a new generation of pharmacist independent prescribers can revolutionise how we deliver patient care.
"But we also know there is huge pressure on pharmacy teams and it is vital they get the support they need so they can keep looking after patients.”
Read the letter to the Prime Minister.