Health systems worldwide face unprecedented strain, with rising demand, ageing populations, and a projected global shortfall of 10 million healthcare workers by 2030. This report explores the growing role of independent prescribing (IP) by community pharmacists as a practical solution to expand patient access, strengthen primary care, and relieve pressure on overstretched services, aligning with the NHS 10-Year Plan’s shift toward prevention, community-based care, and digital delivery.

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Drawing on roundtable insights and international case studies, the report highlights persistent barriers to IP, including commissioning gaps, supervision bottlenecks, pharmacy technician shortages, inconsistent GP engagement, and cultural misconceptions about pharmacists’ clinical roles. It offers three clear imperatives for policymakers and system leaders: start nationally funded IP service commissioning with structured supervision and workforce support; stop restrictive service models that limit pharmacy to transactional roles; and scale successful clinical pathways and integrate pharmacists into neighbourhood care teams.

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Implementing these recommendations can make independent prescribing a mainstream function of community pharmacy, providing patients with faster, more integrated care, reducing pressure on general practice and urgent care, and supporting a resilient, community-based workforce.