CPE seeks pharmacy owners’ input on Pharmacy First thresholds and GP action

It raises concern that many pharmacies may struggle to meet the planned increases in Pharmacy First thresholds for September and October

Community Pharmacy England (CPE) is inviting community pharmacy owners to share their insights and views about increasing Pharmacy First thresholds and the effects of GP collective action on their pharmacies.

This feedback will be discussed at the upcoming Community Pharmacy England Committee meeting in September.

During the meeting, the Committee members will also discuss urgent matters including the 2024/25 negotiations, collaboration with the new government, and their ongoing strategies. A key point of discussion will also be the effects of GP work-to-rule action on community pharmacies.

CPE has raised concerns that many pharmacies might face challenges meeting the scheduled increases in the monthly Pharmacy First payment threshold, noting that pharmacy owners are already considering their options if they start failing to meet the threshold.

In response to concerns from Community Pharmacy England, Ministers have recently agreed to lower the August threshold from 20 to 15.

CPE stated that they are working with DHSC and NHS England to review ongoing service data and evaluate its impact on the planned increases in thresholds for September and October.

In the short term, CPE is pushing for formal Pharmacy First referrals to be promoted to practices as an alternative where patients cannot access GP appointments.

However, they are also concerned that pharmacies could be overwhelmed with displaced and unfunded patients if practices just signpost patients to pharmacies, at a time when capacity is so stretched.

CPE also noted that they are also actively monitoring the extent of various financial pressures affecting pharmacies.

Pharmacy owners are encouraged to share their views by participating in the Committee Opinion Poll, which is open to independent and non-CCA multiple pharmacies only.

The survey will close at 11.59pm on Monday, 26 August, to allow time for Committee Members to review all the feedback ahead of their meeting.

In addition to being discussed at the September Committee Meeting, these responses will be used by CPE to advocate for increased core funding and to highlight the significant pressures faced by pharmacies.