NPA: Pharmacies must be supported by government

The National Pharmacy Association (NPA) has reiterated its call for the UK community pharmacy sector to receive increased support and prioritisation from the government.

Responding to the announcement of the new Budget, the organisation stated that pharmacies must receive sustained access to finance in order to help them manage in the “fragile” economic climate.

Ian Facer, the NPA’s chairman, suggested that pharmacists should also be given more influence over the direction of NHS investment, due to their standing on the “front line” of UK healthcare provision.

This message was echoed by NPA director of pharmacy Nanette Kerr, who added that pharmacies play an equally significant role in the economic wellbeing of the UK.

She said: “The tax and spend regime must support this valuable service.”

The NPA has been vocal in its calls for increased government support for pharmacies in recent weeks, with Mr Facer writing to all members of the House of Commons earlier this month as part of this campaign.