Pharmacy First threshold increase: Community Pharmacy England urges Ministers to act

Community Pharmacy England (CPE) has voiced concerns that pharmacy owners may find it challenging to achieve the increased Pharmacy First thresholds planned
for September and October.

Following initial representations by CPE, Ministers agreed to temporarily reduce the threshold to 15 for August.

However, with no further updates since, the Pharmacy First threshold is set to rise to 20 clinical pathway consultations in September.

Janet Morrison, Chief Executive of Community Pharmacy England, expressed her concerns, stating: “The ability of pharmacy owners to meet the Pharmacy First monthly
payment thresholds is a major ongoing concern, and the latest data highlights this burning issue.”

Janet noted that although the August adjustment provided some relief, Ministers must urgently take further action to support pharmacies through the planned
increase in thresholds for September and October.

“Amidst a funding crisis, community pharmacies cannot afford to lose out on this vital payment,” she said.