15 October 2008

UNICHEM CONVENTION 2008: TIME FOR ACTION – MIKE SMITH

The theme of this year's UniChem Convention in Oman is 'Time for Action' and Chairman Mike Smith introduced the first day of business today by telling delegates: "This week is a real call to action for Pharmacy. It is vital that pharmacists identify new income streams and niche markets now…and I mean now, not next year!"

Mike expressed his delight at welcoming the leaders of the three representative organisations of the Pharmacy profession along with Simon Whale, Managing Director of Luther Pendragon – a key advisor to the Department of Health on Pharmacy. He commented: "I am confident that this will lead to a meaningful debate on the future of our profession…and again I shall enter my long unheard call for UNITY."

He also told pharmacists that there is much to be positive about claiming: "Times are tough but 20 years ago we could only dream about the opportunities available to our profession today."

Mike concluded by outlining some key messages and topics for debate during Convention week:

• There is a positive future
• We must all work together – our success depends on collaboration
• There are challenges but we can overcome them together
• Control of Entry is dependent on PCT pharmaceutical needs assessment!
• Who will drive pharmacy forwards? Who speaks for everybody?

Commenting on these he said: "Frankly they are not just for this week but for the future of our profession."

For more information please contact:
Helena Bate, Communications Manager, UniChem, 0208 974 4044
Sanam Conway, Communications Executive, UniChem, 0208 974 4045