29. June 2026

One vision, one plan and one voice

I have read and heard about (and commented on) the outcomes of the community pharmacy contractual framework negotiations in England. The increase, whilst probably the best that could be achieved in the current economic climate and within the current framework, will not sustain a pharmacy business on NHS funded income alone. It’s worth noting that this situation is no different in most countries across the world.

With almost 60% of the uplift going into dispensing through the unjust retained margin system (now 36% of the funding for dispensing) it is the wrong direction and creates perverse incentives and behaviours for what must be a service-led profession and needs urgent reform. If only the representative bodies would finally realise that this will require One Vision, One Plan and One Voice; only then will government listen.

Community pharmacy owners must develop and implement their own vision and plan which is less dependent on this funding. One which delivers against health system needs, but mainly against increasing patient needs and expectations through private services.

This must embrace a leadership culture of team engagement and development, technological innovation, service delivery excellence from premises that looks and feels like a healthcare hub, and an effective marketing strategy.

Join the movement, take control and create your own future.
Modern Community Pharmacy Practice
www.mcpp.uk