Source · Select Committees · Health and Social Care Committee
Recommendation 9
9
Deferred
Paragraph: 63
Require the Government to communicate its understanding of global medicines supply chain risks.
Conclusion
The global supply chain for medicines is complex, with a range of different actors involved in getting medicines from the raw materials to the manufacturer to the patient. The Government needs a clearer understanding and overview of the whole process, and the risks at each stage. If the Government already has that clarity, that should be communicated to Parliament. Only then can weaknesses in the chain, their causes, and how to tackle them be truly established so that the Government can get on top of this growing issue and provide the necessary solutions.
Government Response Summary
The government discusses its commitment to expanding pharmacy services and promoting the Pharmacy First service, but does not address the recommendation about gaining a clearer understanding of the entire medicines supply chain and communicating it to Parliament.
Paragraph Reference:
63
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
As set out in our manifesto we are committed to expanding the role of pharmacies and better utilising the skills of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, including by cutting red tape. That includes making prescribing part of the services delivered by community pharmacists. In 2024 NHS England continues the promotion of the Pharmacy First service through a further multi-media campaign, aimed at raising public awareness and confidence of the service. The Government and NHS England will review the success of that campaign and look at how we can build on it in order to promote Pharmacy First going forwards.