What's Happening?
In England, community pharmacies dispensed a record 1.16 billion prescription items in 2024/2025, marking a 4% increase from the previous year. Despite this growth, the number of pharmacies has decreased to the lowest level since 2015/2016, with only
11,098 pharmacies submitting prescriptions for processing. The majority of prescriptions were dispensed using the electronic prescribing service, highlighting a shift towards digital solutions in healthcare. The report also noted a rise in reimbursement costs for drugs and appliances, reaching £10.4 billion.
Why It's Important?
The increase in prescription dispensing amidst a decline in pharmacy numbers underscores the pressure on remaining pharmacies to handle larger workloads. This situation raises concerns about the sustainability of pharmacy services and the potential impact on patient care, especially in deprived areas. The reliance on electronic prescribing services suggests a move towards more efficient healthcare delivery, but also highlights the need for adequate funding and support for pharmacies to manage increasing demands. The data calls for strategic planning to ensure the stability and expansion of pharmacy services.
