The Welsh arm of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society has issued a pharmacy manifesto ahead of the May 6 elections, calling on the next Welsh Government to recognise the role pharmacists play in healthcare.

The RPS Wales manifesto makes a number of demands on the next Welsh Government, including the integration of pharmacist independent prescribing into routine NHS care and the “universal roll-out of services proven to benefit patients and improve capacity”.

It contains demands for a legal framework allowingcommunity pharmacists to use their professional judgement regarding medication supply in instances of drug shortages, faster roll-out of digital prescribing and read-and-write access to patients’ electronic records.

The manifesto also calls for funded mental health support for pharmacists, as well as improved workforce planning and professional development to “embed the clinical capabilities of the pharmacy team across all NHS settings”.

“The next Welsh Government will continue to face significant challenges in the delivery and sustainability of health and social care services,” said RPS Wales.

“It is vital that the political parties and candidates for the election are fully informed of the important role that pharmacists play in healthcare delivery in Wales.”

The Welsh Conservatives say in their 2021 manifesto that if they win a majority they will “extend the role of community pharmacies in delivering healthcare via a new contract,” while Labour says it will “continue to reform primary care, bringing together GP services with pharmacy, therapy, housing, social care, mental health, community and third sector partners”.