I have been asked more than once what a pharmacist can do once an exempt category pharmacy contract, usually a 100 hour contract, is awarded nearby.
Clearly the situation always varies somewhat from pharmacy to pharmacy, particularly depending upon the mix of NHS and OTC business at risk. To defend the NHS element of business things that should be considered include:
* Promoting and providing an excellent collection and delivery service
* Being ready early for implementation of Electronic transfer of prescriptions
* Pharmacists ensuring that they personally speak to most patients at some point each and every visit
* If the pharmacy is busy enough, automation, to speed dispensing, to reduce dispensing errors and to create pharmacy uniqueness
* Surveying customers regularly to find out what really matters to them in the NHS dispensing service
* Monitoring and reporting to the PCT any shortfall in hours of service service by the 100 hour pharmacy
On the OTC side of the business, pricing, range stocked and stock levels are always important.
An OTC loyalty scheme for customers is also well worth setting up, which can normally be managed through an electronic till.