The Pharmaceutical Journal Vol 267 No 7167 p425-429
29 September 2001

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Department of Health

Pharmacists of no consequence?

From Mr A. F. Huntley, MRPharmS

I recently came across the NHS Magazine for September 2001 in my local public library. The magazine is produced for the Department of Health and can be obtained free of charge by any NHS or social care staff.

It comprises articles written by, or concerning, GPs, junior doctors, consultants, nurses, midwives, practice nurses — seemingly Uncle Tom Cobley and all.

There is no mention of pharmacy or pharmacists.

However, Torbay Pharmacy Manufacturing Unit is praised, while hospitals, patient advocacy and NHS Direct have plenty of exposure. Forthcoming events from 5 September to 5 December are covered, again with no mention of pharmacy.

Health Service Circulars and Medical Devices Agency notes are well covered, the only pharmaceutical input being a recall of a Boots product.

One concludes that pharmacy and pharmacists are of no consequence whatsoever to the Department of Health.

F. Huntley
Bristol

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