Sir,

I can’t believe some of the comments around Tamiflu distribution (C+D, July 25, p14). I know that Bristol wasn’t – until recently – considered a ‘hot spot’ for swine flu, but I’m wondering if I live in a different country!

Firstly, I must disagree with Xrayser as to whether pharmacy should be involved in the distribution of Tamiflu – of course we must. How can pharmacy not be involved in the national distribution of medication? What message would that give to the DH about pharmacy and future roles?

It is essential for Tamiflu and other antivirals to be distributed like any other medicine, so that we can prove the added value of pharmacy – to support and advise the public.

If pharmacies are indeed being overwhelmed with workload then that is an issue for the emergency planners who are directing patients to large, busy central pharmacies, instead of an even spread to contractors with more capacity.
The experience in our business is:

 l patients are concerned, and seeking information and advice both by telephone and in person, but none of them have been panicking. Indeed, some have telephoned to ask whether they really need to ‘cash in’ their URN given by the treatment line, and have shown common sense and responsibility.

l the PCT has emailed or faxed regular updates (once or twice a week) keeping us informed of the situation and distribution methods. There have also been two evening communication meetings, which have been well attended by GPs and nurses but, despite direct invites, only two or three pharmacists have attended.

l only 1 per cent of patients have attended to collect (and let’s remember that recent epidemiological results suggest that only 5 to 10 per cent of people with symptoms actually have swine flu...).

l the URN has worked very well, and it takes 90 seconds to type in the URN and the name and address of the ‘Flu Friend’.

l the PCT accepts any form of voucher, so faxed scripts don’t need to be reconciled or received (we’re telling the surgeries to fax the script and then shred it).

l friends/relatives and patients greatly value the chance to discuss their queries at the pharmacy.

l the PCT appreciates the work we’re doing (but are paying us a pittance – £400 retainer, and 90p per item!).

l it is so easy to get Tamiflu that it has no street value, so no value for criminal gangs attacking distribution points (supply and demand).

The most important message to project is that pharmacy is up to the job. Keep communicating with the PCT (which has figures for antiviral supply so can address excess demand), and use professional judgement and initiative to deal with the problems!

Chris Howland-Harris MRPharmS
Ashgrove Pharmacy, Bristol