I am writing with regards to the article in the Gazette (January 26) on pharmacy provision.
May I make clear the local Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment (PNA) did recognise a gap in service only in the St Anne’s/Hythe area of Colchester.
It is not true, as stated in the sub-headline to the story, that we have said nothing can be done.
The procedure is pharmacy providers will note from the PNA that a service gap has been identified and can then choose to apply to NHS North East Essex to open a pharmacy in the area to fill that gap.
As a commissioner of services, we look forward to hearing from pharmacy providers interested in providing a service in this particular area of need.
The PNA can be accessed at www.northeastessex.nhs.uk
Mary Tompkins
Assistant director of evidence
based medicine & medicines
strategy
NHS North East Essex
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