Page 15 - P4403.59-V55_Numark Pharmacy Magazine Sep 24 PRINT 3
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Addressing funding challenges Rachel Reeves
The inadequate community pharmacy As Britain’s first female Chancellor, Rachel
funding contract has been widely Reeves has been integral to Labour's
recognised as unfit for purpose for quite success and is steadfast in ensuring
some time. Currently, contractors are strict spending plans as outlined in
operating without any formal contract the manifesto. Her role will be crucial
in place. Leading up to the election, in determining the allocation of funds,
discussions on this issue have been including those potentially directed
ongoing, and Community Pharmacy towards community pharmacy.
England is expected to advocate
vigorously for a new contract under the
new government. However, they anticipate
significant challenges in ensuring
their voice is heard amidst competing
demands within the broader health sector
facing similar funding uncertainties.
Supportive MPs:
Pharmacist Taiwo Owatemi and Sadik Al-
Hassan, both with pharmacy backgrounds,
have secured parliamentary seats, adding
to the support for community pharmacy
in the new Parliament. Many candidates
supportive of pharmacies have also won
their seats. Perspective from Numark
Community Pharmacy England (CPE) is Chairman, Harry McQuillan:
set to meet with government ministers Numark Chairman, Harry McQuillan,
to address the pressing issues facing emphasises the manifesto signals a
community pharmacies and discuss the commitment to fully integrate community
promised independent prescribing service. pharmacies into the healthcare system,
CPE will reconnect with MPs, ministers, recognising pharmacists' extensive training
and the Labour policy team, offering and potential. This reframing of pharmacy
resources for Local Pharmaceutical services emphasises a patient-centric
Committees (LPCs) and pharmacy owners approach, highlighting pharmacies as
to engage with their MPs. This initiative integral to holistic healthcare. The Labour
aims to create a network of advocates Government's recognition of the value
in Parliament to support investment and of community pharmacies is crucial for
sustainability in the pharmacy sector. ensuring adequate support, resources, and
return.
In conclusion, while Labour's manifesto
sets forth ambitious goals for community
pharmacy integration and expansion, the
path forward hinges on robust funding
and strategic alignment with healthcare
priorities. The coming months will be
crucial in translating promises into tangible
improvements that benefit both pharmacy
teams and the patients they serve.
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