436 UK pharmacies permanently closed in 2022, impacting elderly and rural communities; Healthwatch calls for a national evaluation of funding and workforce distribution.

Healthwatch England has raised concerns about the impact of widespread pharmacy closures on the elderly and rural communities. In 2022, 436 pharmacies closed permanently, alongside 13,863 temporary closures, largely due to staff shortages. This trend threatens access to care and increases pressure on GPs. Healthwatch calls for a national evaluation of pharmacy funding and workforce distribution to address these challenges and improve service planning.

September 25, 2024
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