Pharmacy teams are pivotal to improving patient access, preventing chronic illness, and securing the long-term sustainability of NHS Wales, Welsh Health Minister Mabon ap Gwynfor has assured.
During his address at the Royal College of Pharmacy’s (RCPharm) annual Welsh conference in Cardiff, the Minister endorsed the role played by pharmacists and pharmacy technicians.
"Few professions are as closely aligned to this Government's ambitions for health and care as pharmacy," the Minister stated, describing local pharmacies as the primary "front door to healthcare" for communities across the nation.
He also underscored the accelerating shift toward advanced clinical services in Wales, pointing to the expanding numbers of pharmacist independent prescribers operating across community pharmacies, GP clusters, and acute hospital wards.
The Minister also highlighted pharmacy’s critical involvement in Wales' public health and prevention strategy, noting the sector's measurable impact on early detection and cancer care pathways.
“As we continue to develop our preventative health agenda, I believe there is significant opportunity to build even further on that contribution,” he added, urging the profession to continue driving progress toward the Vision for Pharmacy in Wales to 2030.
Responding to the ministerial address, Geraldine McCaffrey, Director for Wales at the Royal College of Pharmacy, welcomed the administration’s recognition while calling for tangible operational support:
“Today’s speech was a powerful endorsement of the vital role pharmacists, pharmacy technicians and wider pharmacy teams play in delivering care for people across Wales. It is encouraging to hear the Welsh Government recognises both the contribution pharmacy teams make and the impact they have in improving access to care, supporting prevention and helping people stay healthier for longer.
“Across community pharmacy, general practice and hospitals, pharmacy teams are taking on increasingly clinical roles, helping patients get expert care closer to home when they need it. It’s clear that pharmacy is closely aligned to the priorities of the Government and to the needs of patients in Wales.
"We look forward to working with the Government and partners across the NHS to build on this progress, develop consistent pharmacy services in every part of Wales and ensure the workforce, infrastructure and investment are in place to deliver lasting benefits for patients and communities.”
