From Dr L. R. Kayne, MRPharmS
SIR,-At the British Pharmaceutical Conference this week I settled down in the main arena to listen to Lord Hunt and our President outline the future of the profession. As the minister unfurled the Government's programme for pharmacy within the National Health Service, I sank deeper into despair.
I have not been a community pharmacist for very long - a mere two years. However, during that time I have attempted to build rapport and loyalty with my patients, as the local village pharmacist. Like many other single-handed pharmacists, I dispense, reassure, console, advise, confirm, collect, deliver, liaise and intervene over the course of a 12+ hour working day. Many of these activities do not attract extra remuneration.
Now it appears that this is simply not good enough. I am also to provide medicines review, a consultation area, diagnostic testing, prescribing advice and repeat prescription services. In addition I must wrestle with the costs and technicalities of electronic prescriptions and compete with remote suppliers such as internet and mail-order based pharmacies, to which Lord Hunt gave his blessing. Ideally, these services should available for extended hours and may attract an as yet undisclosed payment.
It is almost enough to make me consider selling-up at this early stage of my career. No wonder the old man retired so suddenly! But actually I hugely enjoy working in community pharmacy so I will have a go at providing a comprehensive service and see what happens. But I am not happy.
Lee Kayne
Glasgow