Bar too high for private PGDs
The burden of regulation is frustrating pharmacists who want to supply prescription medicines via private patient group directions, according to the National Pharmacy Association.
“Currently, [regulations] require registration with the Health
Care Commission and the involvement of a medical agency when wishing
to set up a private
PGD service. This is on top of current mandatory regulation of all pharmacies
and pharmacists by the Royal Pharmaceutical Society, not to mention additional
oversight [by primary care organisations] required through the NHS contractual
framework,” the NPA said in a statement issued this week. It added
that regulatory streamlining could be done without adversely affecting
patient safety.
An NPA spokesman commented: “The process of registration is time
consuming and costly, effectively [excluding] some providers. NPA members
are telling us that when they try to innovate using this route they are
stymied at the first hurdle. The Government has committed to reduce the
burden of regulation across all of their departments; we look forward
to discussing a way forward with officials.”
He added: “At a time of NHS deficits, there is an opportunity to
equip pharmacists with an alternative method of medicine supply, further
encouraging self care.”
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