The Inquiry has concluded and a final report published.
We are glad that some of the themes discussed within our submission were reflected in the final report.
Our submission included reference to how pharmacists and their teams, the unsung frontline heroes, worked tirelessly throughout the pandemic to ensure that vital services were provided for the communities they are based in. This was often without PPE and other safety measures being in place, especially during the early stages of the pandemic. Pharmacists went over and above what was required including delivering medicines to those shielding even after a long hard day’s work.
We specifically noted how the doors of community pharmacy stayed open for those who needed to speak to a healthcare professional for information or simply for reassurance. Even though many pharmacists had put in place social distancing rules, or limited numbers coming into the pharmacy, the pharmacist would always be on-site in the premises to deal with queries or provide advice. The societal impact of this access was immeasurable, especially for those that were elderly or simply needed a human face to talk to.
We recognised that all pharmacies, especially smaller independent pharmacies are under immense financial pressure and that it would be these small pharmacies (that are often at the heart of many local communities) which stayed open throughout the pandemic that would be at risk of closing if adequate funding is not assured.
We also urged the Government to ensure that community pharmacy receives fair funding and that this funding is distributed equitably to these valuable smaller pharmacies and also to all the staff that worked so hard throughout the pandemic.
You can read our detailed submission here.