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24/07/2009
Cross-Border Dispensing 'Out'
Pharmacists in Northern Ireland have been advised not to get involved in a dispute over drug fees in the Republic.
As hundreds of pharmacists in the Republic prepare to withdraw services to patients who have medicines paid for by the government in the dispute over fees, the pharmacists body in NI has told its members not to take over the contracts, as to do so would present "all sorts of problems."
The Dublin government has invited pharmacists on the northern side of the border to dispense along the border during the dispute.
They are seeking savings of about €133m a year by cutting the fees paid to pharmacists.
However, the cuts are being imposed without negotiation as part of the government's plans to make savings throughout the public sector.
In response around 50% of pharmacies say they will withdraw services to state-funded patients from 1 August.
Terry Hannawin, Chief Executive of the Pharmaceutical Contractors Committee (Northern Ireland) said that while pharmacists couldn't be compelled not to take part, they were being advised not to.
See: NI Pharmacies May Dispense Across Border
As hundreds of pharmacists in the Republic prepare to withdraw services to patients who have medicines paid for by the government in the dispute over fees, the pharmacists body in NI has told its members not to take over the contracts, as to do so would present "all sorts of problems."
The Dublin government has invited pharmacists on the northern side of the border to dispense along the border during the dispute.
They are seeking savings of about €133m a year by cutting the fees paid to pharmacists.
However, the cuts are being imposed without negotiation as part of the government's plans to make savings throughout the public sector.
In response around 50% of pharmacies say they will withdraw services to state-funded patients from 1 August.
Terry Hannawin, Chief Executive of the Pharmaceutical Contractors Committee (Northern Ireland) said that while pharmacists couldn't be compelled not to take part, they were being advised not to.
See: NI Pharmacies May Dispense Across Border
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