Richard thomas

Policy,

Editor’s comment: Pharmacy’s bleak midwinter

Community pharmacy is the cornerstone of the NHS but the network is staring into the abyss. The funding gap must be eliminated – urgently – before pharmacy closures spiral out of control and patient care is damaged irrevocably, says PM editor Richard Thomas.

12 Dec 2025

Financial Management & Funding,

Editor’s viewpoint: Decent start but could be (much) better

Now that the dust has settled somewhat, there was quite a lot to like – but also dislike – about England’s contractual framework settlement. So is it a good deal for community pharmacy or not?

23 Apr 2025

Integrated care,

From the Editor: Neighbourhood watch

Commissioning is undergoing a quiet revolution. Pharmacy must be an active partner in integrated neighbourhood care. By Richard Thomas.

07 Mar 2025

Financial Management & Funding,

Opinion: Change the record, Wes

If the result of the NPA ballot doesn't send Messrs Streeting and Kinnock into a cold sweat – and to the negotiating table – nothing will. Pharmacy needs funding not soundbites from this underwhelming Government as the sector stands on the brink. By Richard Thomas.

14 Nov 2024

Policy,

Editor’s viewpoint: Celts, cuts and colleges

The news wires are buzzing; it’s been a busy month. Pharmacists are facing huge questions on all fronts, says Pharmacy Magazine editor Richard Thomas.

04 Oct 2024

Pharmacy team,

Editor’s viewpoint: Time to make a stand

Levels of violence, abuse and aggressive behaviour are escalating in pharmacy. Enough’s enough, says PM editor Richard Thomas.

23 Aug 2024

Leadership,

Editor’s view: Opportunity knocks for pharmacy?

Community pharmacy’s fate hangs in the balance as the new Government tries to get to grips with a “broken” NHS. Yet despite the sector’s deepening financial crisis, simply holding out the begging bowl will not cut the mustard. It’s time to be bold, says Pharmacy Magazine editor Richard Thomas.

17 Jul 2024