The distribution of pharmaceuticals through the traditional means is abjectly failing as a result. And the truth that dare not speak its name, is that no amount of money will solve it – you may as well toss Maltesers into an active volcano.
The treatment of this enduring conundrum, however, is eminently solvable.

Indeed, for as long as anyone can remember the solution has always been there. On every street corner, they are instantly recognisable and a stone’s throw from everywhere.

No, I’m not talking about Greggs. I’m referring to the humble pharmacy – criminally underused for hundreds of years, totally misunderstood for more.

Having written about this very subject for many years and spoken to a great many pharmacists, the frustration has persisted.

The most commonly used expression in terms of how pharmacists are typically perceived comes from these highly qualified health professionals themselves – ‘people think we’re just Smartie counters’ (and variations on this confectionary/arithmetic-based theme).

Now, mercifully, these quietly efficient, pragmatic, knowledgeable and community immersed individuals are able to properly engage with patients, testing them, undertaking procedures and – critically – prescribing some drugs.

It has taken a full-on crisis across the NHS, but pharmacists are finally being ordained. They are stepping out of the shadows, not as a middle person, but as a vital decision-maker.

It’s not just the road to Damascus, but the street, avenue, shopping mall and retail park to, erm, Damascus.

That’s blockbusters! Enjoy the magazine,

John Pinching
editor

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EDITORIAL
John Pinching / editor
john.pinching@pharmatimes.com

Iona Everson / group managing editor
iona.everson@pharmatimes.com

Karl Equi / executive director
karl.equi@pharmatimes.com  

SALES & MARKETING
Tara Lovegrove / business director
tara.lovegrove@pharmatimes.com

Luci Sargood / business manager
luci.sargood@pharmatimes.com

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