Medicines are the most frequently and widely used NHS treatment and account for over 12 percent of NHS expenditure. A coherent medicines policy aims to control costs, increase patient access and improve value for money. The Department's policy on medicines and pharmacy covers every step of the journey from the development of medicines to their use by the patient.
This section contains information on the pharmaceutical and medical technology industries, medicines, prescribing and prescription forms, NHS charges and exemptions, community pharmacy and NHS pharmaceutical services legislation and guidance
Last year, the NHS rolled out the ‘Quit Kit’ – a simple pack containing practical tools and advice for smokers wanting to quit. The Quit Kit was distributed via the NHS smoking helpline and website, and through a pharmacy partnership. The Department intends to run the Quit Kit activity again and is seeking partners in pharmacy to support it. The deadline for expressions of interest is 15 September 2010. If you would like to express your interest, please contact the Smokefree team at:
Published: 30/03/2010
This document provides information to assist PCTs in publishing their pharmaceutical needs assessments. It explains and expands on regulations to the Health Act 2009 (SI 2010/914)
This group, drawn from leading interested parties, has been set up to advise on regulations, subject to Parliamentary approval, needed to translate into reality proposals in the Health Bill 2009.
