Dispensing technology highlighted in rural medication access report

Robotic hubs, hub-and-spoke systems and home delivery services are expected to keep rural community-based services “within practical reach”, a new Government report says.

Equalities impact assessment: 10 Year Health Plan for England highlights that access to medication remains a core issue for many disabled people. It suggests that the proposed expansion of community pharmacy services - including vaccine delivery and more convenient dispensing - should have a positive impact in reducing “over-reliance” on hospital or GP-based services. The report concludes: “Bringing community pharmacy more clearly into the NHS’ core clinical workforce increases options for those who may struggle to access or engage with traditional GP services - including adults in low-income or rural areas.”

The report also suggests that adults in rural areas or on low incomes may struggle with digital-first services or non-local care models^,exacerbated by a lack of digital telephony. The report notes that connectivity across England is uneven, with superfast broadband available for 89 per cent of all premises in rural areas, compared with near total coverage in urban areas (98%).

The report pledges to account for the needs of rural areas in service design, including in estate consolidation or sale. Dispensing GP services are not mentioned in the report.

Further information: DDA lobby document. Dispensing practice (England, Wales) Addressing the disparities

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