Independents are feeling vulnerable to increased competition from the multiples, and are confused by changes in the wider NHS, according to research by Actavis.

Proprietors are concerned by stock availability and market volatility, and feel that communication between CCGs and pharmacy is poor. They feel cut off from the wider NHS with no clear point of contact, according to the research commissioned prior to the relaunch of the Actavis Accumulator scheme.

Pharmacists called for clear, transparent pricing, more competitive pricing for higher spend and more supportive partnerships with suppliers. Actavis has attempted to deliver these elements in its “reinvigorated” Accumulator scheme, which includes net pricing and a simpler three-tier discount band model. New monthly spend bands are:

   • Level one   –   £0-749
   • Level two   –   £750-1,499
   • Level three –   £1,500+.

Actavis director Jonathan Wilson said:
“We have listened to our customers. The new scheme gives them the comfort that we’ll always offer market competitive prices on our increasing range of over 750 products, leaving them to concentrate on offering services to patients, rather than shopping around for medicines.”

Customers currently signed to the Accumulator scheme will automatically be enrolled in the new pricing model.

“In addition to the benefits offered by clear, transparent pricing and our expertise in pharmaceutical reimbursement, pharmacists will also enjoy high quality and consistency of supply from Actavis’ specialist UK manufacturing facility,” said Mr Wilson.