In an era where healthcare is increasingly complex and multifaceted, with rising demands on systems and ongoing developments in professional practice, the role of the pharmacist has never been more critical. The PDA’s manifesto is a call to action for the next cohort of MPs to embrace pharmacists’ unique position within the healthcare system. As trusted healthcare professionals, pharmacists are at the forefront of ensuring medication safety, promoting wellness, and improving patient outcomes.
While whoever wins the general election will control HM Treasury, healthcare is devolved in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales where decision making sits with those national governments. Westminster directly controls the health service in England.
The PDA’s manifesto highlights the importance of pharmacists in the delivery of NHS care to those hoping to be elected to Parliament. It sets out specific asks which emphasise the need for a sustainable NHS, investment in the workforce, integration across the system and effective governance. Through support for these principles, there is an opportunity for pharmacists to advocate for patients and contribute to the important debate around the health and well-being of our communities.
Read the PDA’s Full manifesto document here
Read the short version of the PDA’s asks of the next government here
What can you do?
Ahead of polling day on Thursday 4 July 2024, candidates will be actively seeking your support. This presents a fantastic opportunity to highlight the role of pharmacists and their contribution to the NHS and to show what can be done to improve the lives of patients and the profession.
- Register to vote by 11.59 pm on Tuesday 18 June by clicking here.
- Register for one of the PDA’s events on the manifesto by clicking below.
- Share the PDA’s manifesto.
- Contact candidates and ask them to show their support for the pharmacist workforce. You can find a list of candidates in your constituency here.
- Attend local hustings and events and ask questions of the candidates.
- Highlight your work in the local community to candidates.
- Speak to colleagues, friends, and families about what is important to you at the election.
Those wishing to discuss any of these approaches in more detail are encouraged to contact the PDA by emailing [email protected]
Not yet a PDA member?
If you have not yet joined the PDA, we encourage you to join today and ask your colleagues to do the same.
Membership is FREE to pharmacy students, trainee pharmacists and for the first three months of being newly qualified.
Read about our key member benefits here.