900 pharmacists quit drugs schemes

MORE than 900 pharmacists have told the Health Service Executive they are withdrawing from the community drugs schemes.

The pharmacists have written to the health authority giving 30 days’ notice of their intention to discontinue providing services under the scheme.

The Irish Pharmacy Union said the move will result in over half of all pharmacies ceasing to dispense medicines under the Medical Card Scheme and Drugs Payment Scheme from August 1 next.