HSE examining 'contingency plans' to cope with proposed action by pharmacists

The HSE said it is assessing a number of possible alternatives for the distribution of prescriptions to people on medical card and drug payment schemes ahead of the planned withdrawal from these schemes by the majority of local pharmacists from August 1. Eight pharmacies in Athlone town - along with one in Monksland and two in Moate - have announced their intention to withdraw from the community schemes from August 1 as a result of a dispute with the HSE over the payments they receive. When contacted by the Westmeath Independent yesterday (Tuesday), a spokesperson for the HSE issued a statement outlining possible alternatives for providing medication from August 1, including the use of local health centres as 'dispensing sites.' 'The HSE is currently assessing a range of contingency plan options which can be put in place from August 1, 2009, to ensure that everyone on State"s General Medical Services and Community Drugs Schemes will be able to get access to their medication,' read the HSE"s statement. 'The HSE has a widespread network of local health centres across the country and locations for the operation of the additional dispensing sites are being identified.' The executive added that it had been informed by 'many community pharmacy contractors around the country' that they intend to continue providing services under the schemes after August 1. The pharmacies in Athlone which have written to the HSE to give them 30 days notice of the withdrawal of services are: Michelle Concannon"s pharmacy on Mardyke St; Paul Cunningham"s on the Dublin Road; Pauline Staunton"s pharmacy on Connaught Street; Philip McGorisk"s three outlets in the town; and Ray McSharry"s two Athlone pharmacies. In addition, Paul Cunningham"s pharmacy in Monksland and Robert Dolan"s two outlets in Moate also served notice of their intention to withdraw from the scheme from August 1.