New NHS pharmacy contract applications — Wales
Applying for a new NHS pharmacy contract in Wales requires a thorough understanding of the NHS (Pharmaceutical Services) (Wales) Regulations 2020 and the local health board process. TI Pharmacy Consultancy supports applications in Wales from initial assessment through to determination.
What we do
- Assessment of your proposed site under the Welsh pharmaceutical needs framework
- Advising on the appropriate application route under the Welsh Regulations
- Preparation of all application documentation for submission to the relevant LHB
- Managing the representation and consultation period
- Oral hearing support and appeal preparation if required
How it works
Initial assessment
We assess the proposed site against Welsh pharmaceutical needs assessment data and advise on prospects.
Application preparation
We prepare the full application under the Welsh regulatory framework.
LHB submission
We submit the application to the local health board and manage all correspondence.
Determination
We advise on the outcome and any further steps available to you.
Frequently asked questions
New pharmacy applications in Wales are governed by the NHS (Pharmaceutical Services) (Wales) Regulations 2020, not the English 2013 Regulations. Applications are submitted directly to local health boards (LHBs) rather than through PCSE and ICBs. The assessment criteria, application routes, timescales and appeals processes all differ from the English framework. Advice based solely on English regulations will not be correct for a Welsh application.
Under the Welsh regulations, new pharmacy applications are assessed against the pharmaceutical needs of the local population as determined by the LHB. The specific application routes and assessment criteria under the Welsh framework differ from the four grounds available in England. TI Pharmacy Consultancy advises on the appropriate route for your proposed Welsh application based on the specific LHB area and local pharmaceutical needs data.
Wales has seven local health boards: Aneurin Bevan, Betsi Cadwaladr, Cardiff and Vale, Cwm Taf Morgannwg, Hywel Dda, Powys and Swansea Bay. Each LHB administers the pharmaceutical list for its area and assesses pharmacy applications independently. TI Pharmacy Consultancy has experience of working with Welsh LHBs and prepares applications for the specific LHB covering your proposed site.
Yes. The Welsh regulations provide for appeals against LHB decisions on pharmacy applications, but the appeals process differs from the NHS Resolution route used in England. TI Pharmacy Consultancy advises on Welsh appeal rights and manages the appeal process for Welsh contractors.
Yes. Even if you are an experienced English pharmacy contractor, the Welsh regulatory framework is sufficiently different that specialist Welsh advice is important. TI Pharmacy Consultancy advises on both jurisdictions and will ensure your Welsh application is prepared specifically for the LHB process.
Ready to start?
Contact us for a free initial assessment. We will review your situation and give you an honest view of your options and the likely chances of success — before you commit to anything.
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