RPS has given evidence at the opening of a new phase of the UK COVID-19 Inquiry.

Public hearings have now begun for Module 3 of the Inquiry, which is examining the impact of the pandemic on healthcare systems in the UK. The RPS has been designated as a Core Participant.

Our statement was presented to the Inquiry by the legal team working on our behalf. We highlighted the vital role of pharmacists and pharmacy teams during the pandemic and set out key issues which should be considered by the Inquiry, including:

• Recognition of pharmacists as key workers.
• The resilience of pharmacy services in the event of a future pandemic or health emergency.
• The impact of medicines shortages on patient care.
• Investment in and resilience of aseptic pharmacy services.
• The welfare of pharmacy teams, including Infection, Prevention and Control guidance, and the provision of personal protective equipment.

In earlier preliminary hearings we had previously made presentations on issues such as the eligibility of pharmacists for government life assurance schemes, and the importance of COVID-19 risk assessments for pharmacy teams, which were acknowledged in the opening statement from the Inquiry’s legal counsel.

RPS President Claire Anderson said: 

“Pharmacists and pharmacy teams across the whole of the health service played a crucial role during COVID-19, supporting patient access to care and maintaining vital access to medicines.

“Our evidence has reflected how pharmacy teams went above and beyond in the face of unprecedented demand and the most challenging of circumstances.

“I hope our members’ experiences that we have shared will continue to help shape and inform the Inquiry’s conclusions.

“With continued pressures on the health service and the whole of the workforce, it is more important than ever to learn from the past so we can build a more resilient NHS and help prepare for the future.”

Our written submission and a transcript of the hearing are available on the Inquiry’s website.

Every Story Matters

The Inquiry is inviting everyone to share their experiences of COVID-19 and views on potential lessons learned through Every Story Matters.

RPS COVID-19 Oral History Project

Listen to firsthand accounts of the impact of COVID-19 on the pharmacy profession through our museum's COVID-19 Oral History Project. 

Read more RPS news stories.