Pharmacists in Devon and Cornwall Assert Vital Community Role Amid Financial Strain

Pharmacists operating in Devon and Cornwall, grappling with escalating expenses, contend that their absence would be profoundly felt should they be compelled to cease operations. This development occurs as a group representing approximately half of the UK’s independent pharmacies has, for the first time, voted in favor of industrial action. The National Pharmacy Association is advocating for an annual funding increase of about £1.7bn. The Department of Health indicated its desire for all pharmacists to collaborate with it to establish a service suitable for the future. George Wickham, from Luxton’s pharmacy in Exeter, stated that funding has been “cut dramatically” over the last five years. He remarked, “It has got to the point where we are almost unable to break even.” Mr. Wickham reported that 28 pharmacies closed in Devon during the past year, placing additional strain on the remaining establishments. He affirmed, “We are a key part of the community and we have been here for 50 years or more,” adding, “We are well respected and we know we do an excellent job, but it’s increasingly hard to do that in the current environment.” Revenue from the NHS has declined over the last five years, Mr. Wickham explained. He elaborated, “Our bills have gone up our costs have gone up in the last five years and we have had no increase in funding whatsoever.” He also noted that patients rely on pharmacies because it is “virtually impossible” to secure an appointment with a GP. He commented, “We can fill in and provide services that would otherwise be given by GP surgeries.” An NHS spokesperson stated: “The NHS knows just how important pharmacies are for local communities.” They continued, “We are working with government and pharmacies to find a way forward so patients continue to receive high-quality care.” Faisel Baig, who manages a pharmacy in St Mawes, Cornwall, highlighted a substantial discrepancy between the cost he incurs for medicines and the amount he receives from the NHS for dispensing them. He gave an example where a single packet of a stroke drug cost £15, but he was reimbursed £3 per packet. He also cited issues with drug supplies stemming from the war in Ukraine and Brexit. He shared, “We are privileged to work here, it’s a great view,” and added, “It’s very satisfying to help people with their health conditions, we have dealt with a heart attack and wounded people, one with a broken hip.” However, he mentioned that he is forced to reduce the pharmacy’s opening hours due to rising wages and energy costs. He observed, “Most people are grateful that a service is here, it’s 25 miles to the next pharmacy by road.” Additional reporting was provided by Jonathan Morris. For further information, follow BBC Cornwall on X, Facebook and Instagram, and BBC Devon on X, Facebook and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted to spotlight@bbc.co.uk. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC is not accountable for the content of external sites. Details on our approach to external linking are available.