The new Pharmacy First Service could improve patient care, not least because it means that people can get help sooner and closer to home.

However, without adequate funding and staffing, these new responsibilities will only add more pressure to an already stretched pharmacy workforce.

A survey conducted by the Pharmacists’ Defence Association (PDA) of 3500 pharmacists casts doubt on whether pharmacies are ready and able to deliver the Pharmacy First Service, in addition to the vital work that they already undertake in our communities.

I have written to the Minister for Public Health, Start for Life and Primary Care, Andrea Leadsom, and raised this issue with her.  I have posted a copy of this letter below for you to see.

On a related note, I recently wrote to the Minister for Health and Secondary Care, Andrew Stephenson, and asked that pharmacy students be allowed to access the NHS Learning Support Fund (LSF) as so many other medical students can.  I also submitted a written question on this issue.

In response, the Minister said: ‘There are no immediate plans to make changes to the scheme design.’

This is disappointing given the importance of ensuring that all medical students, including pharmacy students, are properly supported financially during their studies.

I can assure you that I will continue to advocate for pharmacists, and pharmacy students, in Parliament.