I was delighted to visit Brockworth Pharmacy and Health Clinic at Abbotswood Centre recently for its official grand opening, at the kind invitation of Pete Messiha of Ascent Wellfield, an independent pharmacy group.
The pharmacy, previously operated by Jhoots Pharmacy, has been revitalised following its acquisition by Ascent Wellfield, restoring and enhancing local access to healthcare services in Brockworth.
We discussed a range of important issues affecting community pharmacies, including medicines waste, stock shortages of aspirin, the rising cost of items such as vitamin B12 injections, and the growing role pharmacies play in supporting frail and elderly patients in the community — an issue I have examined in detail through the Public Accounts Committee, which I chair.
We also discussed the significant financial pressures facing pharmacies, particularly the Government’s changes to National Insurance and business rates. I made clear that I will continue to lobby the Government on these concerns.
It was a pleasure to meet Pete and the team, who are committed to delivering high-quality, patient-focused care and re-establishing this site as a trusted community healthcare hub for the local community.
I wish them every success.
