Dispensing doctors fear for future

The GPs at the Croft Practice in Barnham Road met with their MP to discuss their fears.

Government proposals aim to give pharmacies in England a wider role. This includes providing new services, such as health screening, offering NHS treatment for minor ailments and supporting healthier living.

However, there are concerns the proposals will alter the contractual arrangements for dispensing medicines. This may stop GPs from doing so because it will leave them unable to compete with commercial pharmacies.

Many GPs who dispense medicines from their surgery say the proposals will destabilise the current system and deprive their practices of a valuable source of income.

The Croft Practice has 10,400 patients at surgeries in Easter-gate, Yapton and Walberton.

Dr Ian Buchanan, of the practice, said they told Nick Herbert, the MP for Arundel and South Downs, about their concerns.

The government's plans to improve pharmaceutical services for local communities were partly supported, he said. But he added: "This should not be at the expense of dispensing doctors, who provide a valuable service, which is appreciated by their patients.

"We are extremely concerned that, if dispensing were removed, it would be more difficult for us to invest in new facilities and services for patients."

He was joined at the meeting by his fellow GPs Andrew Bridger and Sue Rose and practice manager Judith Walker.

Mr Herbert assured the GPs he would pass on their comments to the minister for health.

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