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Concordance
Remuneration
Specials
Artificial saliva
Vaccines
Letters to the Editor
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Specials
Taxpayers are not getting value for money
From Mrs M. A. Chapman, MRPharmS
I am concerned about laboratories charging excessive prices to make up
relatively simple products.
For example, a few days ago, 400g 25 per cent salicylic acid in white
soft paraffin resulted in a total invoice charge of £157.03. The
laboratory, Craig & Hayward Ltd, Pangbourne, were able to supply
the next day. On receipt of the faxed invoice I queried the high charge
and was told that the pharmacy would usually be granted a professional
fee by way of a £21 credit.
Are doctors aware of the cost of such items to the National Health Service
and their own budgets? I do not think the NHS, ie, the taxpayer, is getting
value for money.
Maureen Chapman
Wirral,
Merseyside
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MATT HAYWARD, director, Craig & Hayward Ltd, replies:
“Special” non-licensed
products are made for an individual specific order. They are manufactured
in Medicines and Health
products Regulatory Agency approved laboratories with specially
trained staff working in a controlled environment with specialised
equipment (not on the back
bench of a dispensary). These products are often produced and delivered for
next day delivery to enable prompt supply to a patient.
I do not believe the price of the “special” non-licensed product
is excessive considering the time and facilities required to produce it, the
quality control required for all ingredients, the prompt delivery service and
VAT. |
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