The announcement of a further 1500 pharmacists posts in GP practices before Christmas (https://www.england.nhs.uk/gp/gpfv/workforce/cp-gp/) will mean 1500 less pharmacists to cover community sessions. Market forces will mean an increase in locum rates won’t it? I understand that that will be anathama to most pharmacy owners and operators but you can’t use the market forces argument to reduce rates for 8 years and then deny the same argument when things change back the other way!
The Annual Chemist and Druggist survey describes a gradual decline in locum rates since 2008 http://www.chemistanddruggist.co.uk/news/locum-rates-hit-lowest-point-salary-survey-began#table when the new pharmacy schools started producing increasing numbers of pharmacists. Ironically, it’s probably this increasing numbers of pharmacists that has opened up the clinical opportunities for pharmacists as the other healthcare professions like medicine and nursing see a drop in numbers coupled with an ever increasing demand,
The opportunity for 1500 more pharmacists to follow a more clinical career is fantastic. A rewarding careers lies ahead for those willing to take the jump. Medacy are one of the leading providers of pharmacist-led services to GP practices so if you are interested in working in GP practices give us a call on 0800 111 4102
PS It should also mean an increase in salaries for employed pharmacists as competition for pharmacists increases. Happy Days!
