RPS invites members to share views on community pharmacy reforms

The Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) has reached out to its community pharmacist members appealing for their input into the government’s consultation on proposed reforms to community pharmacy, which runs until 24 March 2016.

In an email sent to RPS members working in community pharmacy, English Pharmacy Board chair Sandra Gidley says the board would welcome the thoughts of RPS members and encouraged them to get in contact with her and her colleagues.

“We will have formal meetings with the Department of Health where I will put forward the RPS English Pharmacy Board’s views,” writes Gidley. “We have been told to expect an announcement in April which will set out the government’s plan and implementation will begin in October this year.”

She added that the board would be working collaboratively with all pharmacy trade bodies and unions to ensure a united and strong voice. Gidley also highlighted that local practice forums (LPFs) will be addressing the reforms in local engagement events across the country.

“As a community pharmacist I know that it’s is absolutely vital that community pharmacy thrives and expands. I hope I can count on your support and would like to thank you for all you do for patients and the public,” she writes.

The RPS has also launched a dedicated ‘community pharmacy reforms hub’ on its website to provide a source of information for pharmacists about the changes to community pharmacy in 2016/17 and beyond. The section will provide updates on what the RPS is doing to help support community pharmacists and also how community pharmacists can play their part.