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The NPA is continuing to develop its thinking on hub and spoke dispensing and would welcome your thoughts on the issue, says head of external affairs, Stephen Fishwick

 

Safety considerations

As community pharmacy owners consider opportunities to improve dispensing efficiency, they and all pharmacy sector stakeholders must be mindful of safety considerations, the impact on patient experience and any implications for the reputation and vitality of the pharmacy sector. Independents tempted to enter into a brokered arrangement will need to take into account a host of technical, corporate governance, stock and commercial sensitivity issues. Under current regulations, only pharmacies that belong to the same legal entity can form a hub and spoke arrangement – but even regulatory change would not remove these considerations. As the NPA continues to develop its thinking on hub and spoke dispensing, we ask that members let us know their opinions by emailing independentsvoice@npa.co.uk.

High flyer

The NPA is pleased to report an early success from our new ‘Delivering Medicines Safely and Effectively’ course. This is the first GPhC-accredited training for delivery drivers and addresses a previously unmet need. In January, Cliff Massey of Orrell Park Pharmacy in Liverpool became our first student to complete the course. Congratulations Cliff on your A grade! Finally, as a proud sponsor, may we take this opportunity to say good luck to those entered for the SMART Award for Healthcare Innovation (see p2). The winner will be announced in March.