IPU Pre-Budget Submission 2025: an overview

Our Pre-Budget Submission is more than just a request for financial adjustments; it is a comprehensive appeal for the necessary reforms to secure the future sustainability of community pharmacies. This article provides an overview of our Pre-Budget Submission and highlights the pressing need for a flat dispensing fee of €6.50 per item, reinstatement of the indexation link with public sector pay, and the introduction of an administration payment to cover the increasing costs of providing essential services. Over the past 16 years, our contracted fees for our critical dispensing services have stagnated, and in fact reduced, due to the regressive nature of our fee structure. Rising operational costs of running our businesses are leaving many pharmacies struggling to maintain their services, as 82 per cent of our dispensing services are State funded, with fees and pricing of medicines set by the State. This article and the full IPU Pre-Budget Submission provides a clear and compelling argument for why these changes are critical, not only for the viability of our businesse,s but for the continued health and wellbeing of the communities we serve.  

Pharmaceutical care at the heart of healthier communities: a vision for the future

The IPU White Paper: Key Enablers for a Sustainable Pharmacy Model outlines a strategic vision for transforming community pharmacies into integral components of the healthcare system. This article summaries this extensive paper, emphasising the importance of expanding our clinical services, such as chronic disease management, health screenings and vaccinations, which are crucial in addressing the evolving healthcare needs of our population. It also advocates for integrating advanced ICT solutions to streamline our operations, removing unnecessary administration burden and improving patient care. Furthermore, it calls for policy reforms and improved remuneration models to support the expanded role of pharmacists.  

Pharmacy Taskforce Report: what it will mean for you

The final Report from the Expert Taskforce, recently published by the Minister for Health, marks a major milestone in the expansion of our professional responsibilities. This article reviews the Report’s recommendations including enabling pharmacists to prescribe for common conditions, such as allergic rhinitis, cold sores, and uncomplicated urinary tract infections, through a new Common Condition Service set to launch in early 2025 However, as this article outlines, the success of these new services hinges on securing the appropriate funding and support to ensure we can provide sustainable pharmacy services into the future. It is essential that we are all aware of these developments and need to advocate for the necessary resources to deliver these services effectively. The Taskforce recommendations will be transformative for community pharmacy and will require us to adapt our practices, but we cannot do this without the proper investment and commitment from the State. Each of these articles highlights the ongoing hard work and dedication of our Union in advocating for the interests of community pharmacists. They offer a roadmap for the future, providing detailed insights into the challenges and opportunities ahead. By staying informed and engaged with these materials, you will be better equipped to contribute to our collective efforts to secure a strong and sustainable future for our profession. Your involvement is crucial as we continue to push for these necessary changes. Thank you for your unwavering commitment to our shared mission.   Best regards, Tom Murray, President, Irish Pharmacy Union