Pharmacy closure concerns
iNews
Analysis by the National Pharmacy Association (NPA) warns of a tidal wave of pharmacy closures, with 1,500 fewer high street pharmacies in England than there were in 2017.
Despite recent funding uplifts, 51 pharmacies across England closed permanently between January and August this year, the equivalent of two closures a week. These closures are affecting access to medicines, healthcare services and professional advice, particularly in rural areas. It is estimated that nearly 10 million people, around a fifth of England’s adult population, have seen their local pharmacy close.
Our Director of Research and Insights, Dr. James Davies, said:
“Community pharmacies have been facing significant financial pressures for many years and despite recent funding uplifts, the effects of more than a decade of underfunding mean these financial difficulties are ongoing for many pharmacies. Independent economic analysis commissioned by the NHS found a £2 billion funding gap across community pharmacy in England, and in recent polling we found that only 14% of pharmacies are profitable, with 75% losing money.
When a pharmacy closes, it can create pockets where patients will find it harder to access medicines, collect prescriptions and get advice from their local pharmacy. Closures often happen in areas where healthcare support is needed most so it intensifies health inequalities. It also puts additional pressure on neighbouring pharmacies and wider NHS services.
To prevent more pharmacy closures the sector needs a clear long-term plan to address the ongoing pressures with sustained investment.”
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