The NPA is scheduled to call another #SaveOurPharmacies day of action on 19 September to highlight funding crisis and increasing pharmacy closures
A recent survey conducted by YouGov for the National Pharmacy Association (NPA) has highlighted concerning trends in the community pharmacy sector.
The survey published on July 18 and conducted over two days in June this year reveals the subsequent challenges patients face due to the increasing pharmacy closure rates.
The survey findings, conducted among 2,183 UK adults, indicates that 18 per cent of the respondents reported at least one pharmacy closure in their local area within the past year.
Specifically, 12 per cent respondents noted closure of one pharmacy, while 6 per cent observed the shutdown of more than one.
These closures are distributed across various regions, underscoring a nationwide issue rather than an isolated one.
The implications of these closures are significant, especially in terms of medication access and healthcare services.
Nearly half of the respondents, approximately 48 per cent stated that they have never faced issues collecting prescriptions due to medicine shortages.
However, 17 per cent experienced difficulties one to two times, and 11 per cent faced these issues three or more times in the last 12 months.
These statistics highlight the crucial role pharmacies play in ensuring consistent and reliable access to medications.
The survey further delved into the health impacts of these shortages on individuals who have been unable to collect their prescriptions.
Among those affected, 7 per cent reported a significant impact on their physical health, while 25 per cent indicated a fair amount of impact.
Collectively, 32 per cent of the affected respondents experienced notable health repercussions, reflecting the essential nature of uninterrupted pharmacy services.
Accessibility issues also came to the fore, with many respondents emphasising the importance of local pharmacies in managing their health needs.
The closures have not only made it harder for patients to obtain necessary medications but have also strained the remaining pharmacies, which are now serving a larger population.
The survey results call for immediate attention from policymakers and healthcare authorities.
The NPA is scheduled to call another #SaveOurPharmacies day of action on 19 September. The event is strategically timed to coincide with the run-up to the Labour Party conference in Liverpool, the association has said.
