NPA calls again on Government to extend contract exit payments
Ash Soni talks to Rosie Winterton |
Ash Soni, chairman of the National Pharmaceutical Association, has called on health minister Rosie Winterton to extend the window for exit payments for pharmacy contractors who dispense fewer than 2,000 items a month.
Speaking at the Triennial Chairman’s Dinner held at the Apothecaries
Hall, London, earlier this week, where Ms Winterton was chief guest,
Mr Soni reiterated the NPA call that the payment of exit payments should
not be limited to the first year of the new contract’s existence. “This
exit payment should be made available at the end of the three year period
to those pharmacies who attempt to meet the requirements of the new contract
but find it unachievable. Minister, we would be grateful to have your
support for this proposal.”
In reply, Ms Winterton acknowledged that there are details in the new
contract to sort out: “I think that with goodwill and determination
on all sides, we can make it happen.”
Both Mr Soni and Ms Winterton welcomed the outcome of the new contract
ballot and the opportunity that it could offer pharmacists in developing
their roles.
However, Mr Soni pointed out that if pharmacists are to demonstrate their
potential it is essential that they have access to the relevant part
of the patient record and are able to record their own interventions. “We
know that there are sensitivities with this.” He said that the
profession is still awaiting a promised consultation on this.
Ms Winterton said that the document on pharmacist access to patient records
was nearly complete and that the government hoped to begin consultation
on that shortly.
Mr Soni also remarked that he was pleased that the Department of Health
is now consulting on the issue of independent prescribing which will
offer real benefits to patients. The Journal understands that this consultation
is not yet in the public domain.
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