To support NHS, clear the backlog created by the Covid-19 pandemic and help community pharmacies support more people, the Welsh government has announced an allocation of further £12.5 million funding.
Of the total amount, £10mn will be distributed across the 22 local authorities to buy equipment to help people to live independently in their own homes post hospital stay.
The remainder, £2.5mn, will be used to support community pharmacists and patients to improve access to treatment and advice for a range of common ailments.
The move is aimed at alleviating waiting times and reducing winter pressures on the NHS.
Commenting on the announcement, Elen Jones, Royal Pharmaceutical Society director for Wales said: “We are delighted that the Welsh government continue to recognize the value of pharmacists in patient care and we welcome this additional investment and support for Community Pharmacy teams across Wales.
“We fully support the approach to enhancing patient access to primary health care by further utilizing the skills and knowledge of community pharmacists. We are very pleased that these additional monies will support the flexibility and resilience of community pharmacy teams in continuing to deliver services throughout the demanding winter months.
She added that “it is vital that patients are fully informed about the range of health services available to them so they can make the right choice in accessing the right service at the right time.”
