Why would the demand go down? I suppose if we're being technical, the demand is not going to go down, but rather the supply is going to increase dramatically.
When I started my degree in 2001, I had to choose one university out of a total of 16 UK pharmacy schools. Today, that number is nearer 25 as every old polytechnic starts churning out approved pharmacy courses. So in a few years there will be several hundred more pharmacists graduating every year.
Then there is the new tactic the multiples are using by bringing over EU pharmacists. Boots and Lloyds are keen on Polish pharmacists and I've worked in several stores where this has already happened.
On top of this, there is the possibility as mentioned above, that remote supervision could become reality. In this case, the multiples will be rubbing their hands with glee.
I have also heard of the "central dispensing hub" prescription factories, where only one pharmacist is present to do clinical checks on repeat prescriptions and the dispensing is then carried out and checked by several ACTs.
Make your own mind up. The multiples have far too much power and are increasing in strength. Our society is impotent and does nothing for us.  |