The Royal Pharmaceutical Society has welcomed the funding settlement for community pharmacy, which will improve patient access to care and medicines and addresses a decade of underinvestment in the sector.

Tase Oputu, Chair of RPS England said:

"We welcome this contract and its recognition of the vital role of community pharmacy as the front door of healthcare. This is the best deal community pharmacy in England has had in a decade, the largest increase in funding of any sector in the NHS. It marks a significant step forward in addressing the long term underinvestment in community pharmacy.

“Whilst the settlement is a vote of confidence in the sector, we must acknowledge that ongoing economic pressures on pharmacies continue to bite. The sector has been under immense strain and this has taken its toll on wellbeing and morale. The sector still needs fair and sustainable resourcing in the longer term to bridge the funding gap that still exists so it can deliver the government’s ambitions outlined in the 10 year plan for the NHS.

“RPS has long advocated for the provision of free emergency contraception through community pharmacies in England to align with counterparts in Scotland and Wales and is pleased this will now become a reality. Reducing disparities in access will lead to better health outcomes, empower women with greater choice and help reduce health inequalities.

“We look forward to working with the government and other stakeholders to ensure that community pharmacies continue to thrive and fulfil their potential, providing essential, accessible, clinical care in the heart of communities throughout the country.”

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