Responding to the announcement of funding for pilots to deliver NHS weight loss treatments in pharmacies, Henry Gregg, Chief Executive of the National Pharmacy Association said:
"It's good the news that the government want to expand NHS weight loss services into community pharmacies. This is something we have long called for.
"This is a vital step forward in addressing one of the most pressing health challenges facing our country.
"It's important that any funding made available is sufficient to cover the costs involved for pharmacies to provide wrap around care and support.
"Obesity is the single biggest health challenge facing our country, and if we are serious about tackling it, pharmacies must be empowered to play a central role in the solution.
"Community pharmacies already support over 1.4 million people every month with weight management services delivered by pharmacists who are highly trained professionals providing expert, accessible care.
"Despite this, the current NHS rollout remains extremely limited, with only a small number of eligible patients receiving support for obesity with weight loss treatments, and it is vital that this changes.
"With the right funding, pharmacies can scale up delivery quickly - ensuring more people get the help they need, when and where they need it."
