UNDER THE NEW MODEL, INDEPENDENT COMMUNITY PHARMACIES WILL NOW HAVE THE ABILITY TO COLLABORATE


Why It Matters Supporters argue that hub and spoke models have the potential to: • Improve efficiency by outsourcing parts of the dispensing process to centralised, automated hubs.


• Free up pharmacist time to deliver more clinical services, such as independent prescribing, consultations and chronic disease management.


• Support business resilience, particularly for smaller independents, by reducing the burden of repeat dispensing and improving workflow.


A report published by Centred Solutions in 2024* found the following: • Moving to a hub and spoke model could release an average of over 4 hours of pharmacist time per day in an average pharmacy.


• Hub and spoke can deliver an 81% reduction in payroll costs per item, from 99p per item in a pharmacy compared to 19p per item in a hub,


• Moving to a hub and spoke model will take a minimum of 50% of total dispensing volumes (70-80% of repeat dispensing) out of branch creating much needed capacity.


However, there are also widespread concerns. Independent pharmacies have raised questions around cost, governance, training and the risk of increased consolidation in the sector.


Some fear that, over time, the introduction of such models could reduce autonomy and patient connection. That’s why the decision to start with only one tightly regulated model is seen as a cautious, measured first step.


Scotland’s Path Forward While the legislation opens the door for hub and spoke arrangements in October 2025, the road ahead requires further work and clarity.


The RPS response to the government consultation called for national guidance to cover what should be included within the arrangements, including checklists. Uncertainty remains over when and where this will come from.


These next steps are essential to ensure consistency, fairness and safety for both patients and pharmacy professionals.


What Pharmacies Should Be Thinking About Now With less than four months until the enabling legislation comes into effect, pharmacy owners and teams in Scotland should begin considering the following questions: • Would entering a hub and spoke arrangement benefit our workflow?


• Do we have the infrastructure (both digital and logistical) to support such a model?


• Are there other pharmacies we could collaborate with to create our own hub?


• How would this affect our current staffing, delivery operations and patient relationships?


• Do our patients understand - and trust - the idea of their prescriptions being assembled off-site?


Clarity on many of these issues will emerge as guidance is developed. But forward-thinking pharmacy teams should already be exploring the risks and benefits and preparing questions for upcoming consultations.


Centred Solution's FLOWRx Hub Automated Labelling Unit


Balancing Efficiency with Patient Trust Perhaps the most important consideration is patient perception. Community pharmacies in Scotland have built a reputation on accessibility, personal care and trust.


While the hub and spoke model offers operational efficiencies, it must not erode the pharmacist’s central role in the patient journey. The legal requirement to display signs explaining these arrangements is just the starting point. Thoughtful engagement with patients, clear messaging and robust training will be vital to ensure acceptance and maintain public confidence.


In Summary The October 2025 changes to hub and spoke legislation mark a milestone for pharmacy practice in Scotland. They offer the potential for increased collaboration, greater efficiency and improved clinical capacity - but only if implemented with caution, transparency and fairness.


What’s clear is this: the sector will need strong guidance, active consultation and continued investment to make hub and spoke dispensing work for everyone - most importantly, for the patients we serve.


*source: https://8975226.fs1.hubspotusercontent- eu1.net/hubfs/8975226/ROI/ROI%20Report%20.pdf


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