The Royal Pharmaceutical Society has responded to the publication of a report by the Independent Investigation of the National Health Service in England, led by Lord Darzi.

Chair of the RPS in England Ms Tase Oputu said:

“While today’s report sets out some significant challenges, as a key contributor to the report I’m pleased that our evidence has highlighted the real opportunity for pharmacist prescribing to enhance patient care.

“Policy discussions must now turn to how we can make the most of this potential, backed by workforce planning, prescribing budgets, and the commissioning of new services to use pharmacists’ skills.

“At the same time, warnings of pharmacy closures must be addressed so that patients can continue to access a resilient community pharmacy network.

“Pharmacists are crucial to supporting the best use of medicines across the system and the Government and NHS should reflect on how this is prioritised across primary care.

“As we look for pharmacists to play a more clinical role in the health service, pharmacy students must be enabled to access financial support for clinical placements through the Learning Support Fund.

“While there is a welcome drive to care for patients closer to home, we cannot ignore the need to invest in hospital pharmacy, accelerating the roll-out of electronic prescribing and ensuring aseptic pharmacy sites continue to meet safety standards. 

“The report underlines the importance of the UK life sciences and support for clinical trials, alongside the need to ensure patients can access the latest NICE-approved medicines.

“Medicines are an essential part of NHS care and, at the Government looks to develop a 10-year plan, pharmacy must be a part of the conversation.”

The RPS was a member of the review’s external reference group and responded to its call for evidence.

Read the RPS/King’s Fund Vision for Pharmacy Practice

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