It was widely expected that the exemptions to control of entry introduced in 2005 would cease on April 1st 2011, with the introduction of Pharmacy Needs Assessments (PNAs). At the last minute however the DOH decided not to implement PNAs and to temporarily leave the situation on exemptions from control of entry, as they have been for the last 6 years. Whilst no-one knows for how long this situation will continue, some observers believe that no further announcement or change is likely for 6 months, making early November the next likely date for a change of policy. In the meantime PCTs cannot refuse to process exempt applications, such as 100 hour contract applications.