Political Lobby

Political lobby is an important part of the work of the DDA and since its inception, the Association has had many successes.

Individual DDA Board members are charged with ensuring that the voices of rural patients and their dispensing practices are heard at all levels. At the national level, DDA Board members respond to Government consultations and attend all relevant professional events. DDA Board members also attend the annual political party conferences.

The most notable example of DDA political lobby is the development and maintenance of the rural 'accord' with the pharmacy contract negotiators, Community Pharmacy England (formerly PSNC), and the British Medical Association. 

The DDA has also been instrumental in the development of controlled localities in Scotland, and in the creation of dispensing Gp-'friendly' control of entry regulations in Wales (2017).

To support its political lobby, the DDA publishes regular email newsletters, which are sent to named MPs and Peers with an interest in rural health. At the local level, DDA Board Members also host visits to their practices and build relationships with constituency MPs.

Click here to find out more about the Board, and its activities.