Pharmacy Voice has welcomed a letter from NHS England sent last week to all general practices and pharmacies asking for their help in ensuring that all patients are aware of their right to choose freely where they have their medicines dispensed and can exercise this right without influence

The letter demonstrated that NHSE was aware of the scale and seriousness of the prescription direction issue, said Elizabeth Wade, director of policy at Pharmacy Voice. "Most pharmacies and medical practices already ensure that patients’ rights to choose where to access pharmacy services are protected, but it is vital that the small numbers who do not are tackled," said Ms Wade. "Pharmacy Voice therefore welcomes the call to GPs to display prominently a poster informing patients of their right to choose where their prescriptions are dispensed.

But stronger, more forceful action was urgently needed  to stamp out prescription direction. Without this, essential local pharmacies may be placed under threat, endangering patient access and continuity of care, and impacting on other healthcare services.

“Pharmacy Voice has created a task and finish group to coordinate action to address this issue across the sector. This group will ensure that NHS England and other relevant stakeholders are held to account and take responsibility for tackling poor or corrupt practice where it occurs.”