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Online pharmacy: a threat or an opportunity?

P3 Pharmacy, clock1 Min

Practice

Online pharmacy: a threat or an opportunity?

P3 Pharmacy, clock1 Min

In Practice

The P3 Business Group: pharmacists discuss current issues and views.

This time: The growth of online pharmacy is one way that the dispensing model is changing. What has been the impact so far? 

 

'Only time will tell'

Potentially the internet could be a threat to pharmacy but we will have to see how the situation unfolds. At the moment it is unclear if it will help or hinder high street pharmacy. Only time will tell, as they say.

Peter Bettles, Pierremont Pharmacy, Broadstairs

 

'Pharmacy needs to evolve'

I see online as another opportunity for revenue as it offers the chance for a pharmacy to evolve. It is not a threat, as the public will still need to come into the pharmacy if they need additional advice.

 Abdul Kowser, Health Plus Pharmacy, Pontipool Keep

 

'We have to move forward'

I don’t think we should see anything as a threat. We’ve seen many changes over the years, especially with the increasing amount of over the counter products being sold in supermarkets. We just have to keep moving forward and reinventing ourselves, a bit like Madonna.

Pradip Patel, Cross Chemist, London

 

'Great for the younger generation'

It’s an opportunity. I think it appeals to the younger generation and will reach patients who might not go into pharmacy. It will also increase access, which is the main thing that pharmacy should be looking at to improve healthcare.

Alan Bradley, Cornwell’s Chemist Newcastle-under-Lyme

 

'Face-to-face contact is key'

I see it as a threat. There’s no substitute for face-to-face contact. I feel that we’ve provided ourselves on giving a personalised service and being available for follow-up queries. By going online, it’s almost like you’re ordering a CD from Amazon as it comes in a box with no added information. For me, it takes away from the full dispensing service, which is not just on supply but it’s also about explanation, dealing with queries and providing a follow-up.

Brian Deal, Ashwell Pharmacy, Baldock, Hertfordshire

 

'The internet is a powerful tool'

I see it as a very serious threat. The internet is a powerful tool and some patients are confused as to who the provider is and may mistakenly sign up to a pharmacy provider that they didn’t intend to use. Having said that, we have got pharmacies in the community who are easily accessible for patients that need extra advice or help at anytime. The personal service we provide isn’t one that a patient can get from their computer. It’s up to all of us within community pharmacy to raise our game and engage with patients as much as we can.

Peter Badham, Badham Pharmacy, Gloucestershire 

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