The Nuffield Trust and The King’s Fund have jointly unveiled a comprehensive vision for the future of community pharmacies, highlighting the potential for expansion and enhanced healthcare roles over the next decade, contingent on appropriate investments and support.
In their forward-looking report titled ‘A Vision for Community Pharmacy,’ these influential think tanks outline a transformative roadmap for the community pharmacy sector. Their vision revolves around the pivotal role that pharmacies can play in addressing critical policy objectives related to population health, preventive care, and the burgeoning demand for primary healthcare services. Additionally, the report delves into the obstacles hindering the realization of this vision and the crucial facilitators that can propel progress towards these goals.
This independent report, commissioned by Community Pharmacy England, is the culmination of nearly a year’s worth of exhaustive research and consultations involving stakeholders from within the sector and beyond, all of whom advocate for the vital role of community pharmacies.
The report paints a vivid picture of tomorrow’s pharmacies as thriving businesses, preserving their fundamental function as integral components of the medication supply chain. Simultaneously, they are envisioned to expand their scope of contracted and funded activities. Pharmacy teams will be empowered to leverage their professional expertise, forging even closer collaborations with fellow healthcare professionals within local healthcare networks.
Crucially, the Nuffield Trust and The King’s Fund have outlined a series of imperative actions required to bring this visionary transformation to fruition. At the heart of these actions lies the need for a sustainable funding package and active engagement with other segments of the healthcare system. These concerted efforts are expected to propel community pharmacies into an increasingly integral role in the evolving landscape of healthcare delivery.
