The First Minister of Scotland recently announced his Programme for Government, which sets out his plans for the next year across the whole of government. Within NHS Scotland, a key proposal is to merge 11 of the current 14 territorial health boards into two larger bodies covering East Scotland and West Scotland. The three smaller territorial health boards which cover the islands will have closer connections to their local government.
The First Minister’s announcement committed that the Scottish government will now have a period in which to consult with stakeholders, including trade unions, before developing firmer plans.
The PDA recognised that restructures of this nature may have a direct impact on those employed by the health boards in regard to their job security, career opportunities, and future job content. It also has consequences for those pharmacists working elsewhere in the health sector whose work is influenced by the local health board.
The objectives of such changes may sound positive in the proposal, but to meet those outcomes they must also be delivered effectively. Impacts on employment should include proper involvement of trade unions in the decision making, and for the effectiveness of the health board functions it also means including the legitimate representatives of employed and locum pharmacists and not just employers.
As the largest membership organisation and only trade union exclusively for pharmacists, the PDA will engage with government and with each employer to influence system outcomes so that pharmacists are treated fairly.
While the proposals intend to save government money, it is critical that public services are maintained, or better yet improved through any organisational change. Costs reduced by removing duplication of management structures and other efficiencies need to be redirected to better resourced frontline services, while all jobs must be achievable both in content and in the geographical area to be covered by any individual.
The PDA will keep members updated as this initiative develops and as the consultation process takes place. While general discussions may be of interest to all pharmacists, individual support with specific employment concerns is available to PDA members. As always, the PDA welcomes all employed and locum pharmacists into membership.
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