The analysis of the responses from the first attempt made in 2016 clearly states that only 28% of responses supported changes to legislation to enable hub and spoke dispensing. The balance of 72% did not support changes or did not answer the question. The PDA, in its 2016 response stated that it could not support the changes as proposed and it made a number of specific recommendations to the DHSC.
The PDA’s submission to this most recent consultation specifically builds on their 2016 response. As the matters previously highlighted in 2016 have yet to be resolved, the PDA’s position remains unchanged and that it cannot support this latest proposal.
This PDA’s response specifically noted:
- The continued lack of robust evidence to support the proposals.
- The lack of discursive consultation and engagement with pharmacists.
- Issues around appropriate levels of support staff working in community pharmacy as highlighted by the Health Education England surveys.
- The weakness in the current inspection process by the regulator, which does not appear to take a holistic approach to existing hubs and spokes.
- The potential for reduced competition, leading to a higher cost of medicines.
The PDA recommends that the proposals be referred to and considered in the round by the Competition and Markets Authority.
Read the PDA’s full response here
Read the consultation document here
The consultation ran from 16 March 2022 to 8 June 2022.
Learn more
- Pharmacy dispensing models and displaying prices on medicines
- PDA Response to The Department of Health Consultation on Amendments to the Human Medicines Regulations 2012
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