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6mo ago

UK Pharmacies Plan Reduced Hours Amid Funding Crisis

Pharmacy owners vote for historic action due to a decade of underfunding, risking service reductions and closures.

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The photo shows a woman with blonde hair tied in a low ponytail, with glasses on her head, wearing a black jumper. She is facing away from the camera and reaching onto the top shelf of a wall full of different medications.
The National Pharmacy Association represents 6,000 pharmacies across the UK and says 1,500 have closed since 2016 because of higher workloads and a 40 per cent funding decrease in real terms. (Photo: Leon Neal/Getty Images)

Overview

  • The National Pharmacy Association (NPA) reports that 97.8% of its members voted to reduce opening hours and services starting in the New Year.
  • Owners are considering withdrawing from providing emergency contraception and stop smoking services due to financial strain.
  • Pharmacies have faced a 40% funding cut over the past decade, despite increased demand for their services.
  • The NPA warns of potential 'pharmacy deserts' in rural areas if closures continue at the current rate.
  • The recent UK Budget, with increased national insurance contributions and unfunded wage hikes, has exacerbated the financial challenges facing pharmacies.