Pharmacies on the election agenda as the Reform Party UK proposes a ‘Pharmacy First, GP Second, A&E Last’ strategy ahead of elections on July 4
In a bid to revolutionise healthcare in the UK, the Reform Party has announced ambitious plans to offer tax incentives to pharmacies.
This move comes despite record extra funding in recent years, which has failed to halt a decline in NHS healthcare outcomes.
The party argues that while healthcare remains free at the point of delivery, significant reforms are essential to enhance results and eliminate waiting lists.
Central to the Reform Party's strategy is a set of critical reforms aimed at addressing NHS challenges within the first 100 days.
The implementation of tax breaks for pharmacies is intended to enhance accessibility and alleviate pressure on NHS resources.
The initiative seeks to encourage the establishment of new pharmacies and expand existing ones, thereby improving healthcare delivery at the community level.
To address emergency healthcare needs, the Reform Party proposes a ‘Pharmacy First, GP Second, A&E Last’ strategy, supported by tax incentives for new pharmacies and those expanding their workforce to alleviate A&E pressure.
Addressing the inefficient model of healthcare, Richard Tice, the party's leader said:
"We all know that taxes have gone up to record levels and yet the quality of outcomes for public services has declined. That can only mean that we are spending money badly."
Highlighting the waste of investment in public services, particularly NHS, he said, "You've got to cut out the waste from the back office and invest in the front office."
The NHS pledge also includes the proposal to end doctor and nurse shortages by exempting all frontline NHS and social care staff from basic rate tax for three years.
This measure is intended to retain current staff and entice those who have left to return.
Additionally, the party plans to end training caps for all UK medical students and proposes writing off student fees pro rata over ten years of NHS service for doctors, nurses, and medical staff.
Further enhancing healthcare capacity, the party aims to leverage independent and not-for-profit health services, both within the UK and overseas.
To stimulate private healthcare growth and reduce pressure on the NHS, the Reform Party is also proposing a 20 per cent tax relief on all private healthcare and insurance.
This initiative is expected to enhance care standards, expedite treatment, and foster competition, thereby reducing overall costs.
