Rowlands chief sees new role for pharmacy following NHS reforms

Rowlands Pharmacy's commissioning chief Liz Stafford has described the incoming reforms of the NHS as an ideal opportunity for the UK pharmacy sector to demonstrate what it has to offer.

Speaking to Chemist and Druggist, Ms Stafford said there will be more opportunities for pharmacies to provide services on a wider scale once the reforms begin to take effect from April 1st 2013.

Pharmacists will have the chance to provide enhanced services – such as help with smoking cessation – more widely, while shifting patients away from general practice.

Ms Stafford therefore urged pharmacists to put themselves forward to secure places among local professional networks and other groups controlling the NHS reforms, allowing them to make their capabilities known.

She said: "I think it's really important for people to start developing positive beliefs and attitudes about community pharmacy."

Rowlands currently operates 505 community pharmacies situated throughout England, Scotland and Wales, offering a wide variety of pharmaceutical services.