Over 90% of UK pharmacists report increased workload in past year, survey finds

Only one in five UK pharmacists feel their vital frontline healthcare role is valued by policymakers

A new survey has highlighted growing concerns about pharmacists’ increasing workload and their often-overlooked role within the healthcare systems.

In the survey commissioned by consumer health company Kenvue, over 90 per cent of pharmacists reported a workload increase over the past year, with only 37 per cent considering their current workload sustainable.

Their primary concerns include the impact of workload on wellbeing, expanding clinical roles and services, and challenges with staff recruitment and retention.

Pharmacists reported spending most of their time advising patients on common ailments such as coughs, colds, pain, and allergies. However, they spend significantly less time on preventive services, which could further reduce pressure on the wider healthcare system.

For instance, only seven pharmacists focus primarily on smoking cessation, and just four per cent on oral health.

The survey also highlighted pharmacists' sense of being undervalued, with only 22 per cent feeling valued by policymakers, despite their significant contributions to primary care provision.

Notably, 97 per cent of pharmacists indicated that patients seek their advice because they are unable to secure GP appointments.

The findings suggested the need for greater recognition and support for the profession within the healthcare system.

Manoj Raghunandanan, area managing director of Northern Europe at Kenvue, said: "At a time when the healthcare system is under significant pressure and securing a GP appointment is a challenge for many, this survey emphasises the vital role pharmacists continue to play in the UK’s healthcare landscape.

“But it also unfortunately underscores the urgent need for change in how pharmacists are valued and supported within the wider healthcare framework.”

He added that there is a risk of pharmacists' role and trusted community position being overlooked and taken for granted at times.

The survey suggested that, with the right support in place, pharmacists are well-placed to advance government health priorities, particularly in the shift towards community care and preventive healthcare.

Nearly 90 per cent of pharmacists surveyed believe many health issues could be prevented through better self-care, while 80 per cent think improved consumer education would help achieve this goal.