Sir Gavin Williamson recently met with Staffordshire based pharmacies in Parliament to support their work and to campaign for greater transparency regarding future contracts.
The sector faces uncertainty regarding the contractual framework, with the consultation unlikely to report initial findings until 2026 at the earliest.
Organised by Community Pharmacy England, the Parliamentary event showcased how residents in Staffordshire and across the country benefit from a range of healthcare services provided by pharmacies. 56 million people a year go straight to pharmacies as their first port of call.
Sir Gavin spoke with pharmacy owners and representatives who discussed their community orientated work including medicine dispensation as well as offering a range of support and a strong retail service.
A spokesperson for Community Pharmacy England said: “We were really pleased that Sir Gavin could join this event. Whether they are dispensing medication or providing timely healthcare advice, pharmacy teams are an integral part of the local healthcare system.”
Sir Gavin said: “I welcomed the opportunity to attend this important event, which further highlighted the significant role that pharmacies play in communities across Staffordshire and indeed further afield.
“I hold regular meetings with pharmacists in my constituency, and it is clear there is very real concern regarding the future framework and therefore their ability to deliver vital services effectively.
“I will continue to work closely with pharmacies to ensure they have sufficient resources to keep their doors are open.”
