PPharmacy in 2026: Royal College, Prescribing & Politics

As the year draws to a close, looking ahead becomes just as important as reflecting on the past. In a recent special episode of The PJ Pod titled “What will 2026 hold for pharmacy?”, Siobhan Chan, senior features editor at The Pharmaceutical Journal, sat down with her team, Corrinne, Graham, Joanna, and Sophie, to forecast the major shifts facing the profession in 2026.

From historic institutional changes to political upheavals and the evolution of clinical practice, pharmacy is poised for significant transformation in 2026. Here are the key predictions and insights shaping the year ahead.

A New Era: The Royal College of Pharmacy

One of the most significant changes on the horizon is the transition of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) to the Royal College of Pharmacy, scheduled for April 2026.

This move follows a decisive vote by members earlier this year, with 71% in favour. The transition is more than just a name change; it represents a strategic shift towards a stronger professional leadership body.

What does this mean for the profession?

  • Stronger Voice: Adopting the “Royal College” title aligns pharmacy with other medical royal colleges, potentially amplifying its voice with media and legislators.

  • Charitable Status: The new body will have charitable status and a board of trustees, modernising its charter to be more adaptable.

  • Member Benefits: Members can expect new postnominals, enhanced education and credentialing offers, and an improved online experience.

The move aims to give pharmacists more flexibility to achieve and grow as a profession, keeping patients at the forefront of their mission.

Political Shifts in Scotland and Wales

Beyond professional bodies, 2026 is set to be a year of political change that could ripple through the pharmacy sector in the devolved nations.

The upcoming Scottish Parliament and Welsh Senedd elections in May 2026 could bring significant political changes impacting the pharmacy sector. In Wales, Labour faces the possibility of losing its long-held dominance, as Plaid Cymru and Reform are making strong gains in polls. The stepping down of Health Minister Jeremy Miles adds further uncertainty for future health policy.

In Scotland, while the SNP remains ahead in polls, a significant number of MSPs, including former First Minister Humza Yousaf are stepping down. This influx of new voices could alter the trajectory of pharmacy innovation in a nation that has traditionally led the charge in community pharmacy services.

The Perennial Battle: Funding in England

While innovation continues in the devolved nations, the picture in England remains dominated by funding challenges.

The current pharmacy contract expires in March 2026. Although negotiations are pending, real change probably looks some way off. The sector has faced chronic underfunding, and while there is hope for a more sustainable model, the Treasury’s strict control over finances limits optimism.

However, there are glimmers of hope. Signs of goodwill from the new government include Pharmacy Minister Stephen Kinnock meeting early with representative bodies. Future funding discussions are expected to focus on expanding clinical services, such as Pharmacy First and the national independent prescribing service.

The Prescribing Revolution

A major theme for 2026 is the integration of independent prescribing into everyday practice. By summer 2026, a new cohort of pharmacists will join the register as qualified prescribers from day one.

Key discussions included:

  • Workforce Readiness: Employers will need to rapidly adapt job descriptions and supervision structures to accommodate these new skills safely. There is concern about whether the NHS is fully prepared to support these newly qualified prescribers.

  • Community vs. Hospital: While secondary care might find it easier to structure these new roles, community pharmacy faces a more varied landscape. Pathfinders for independent prescribing are concluding, with hopes pinned on a nationally commissioned service.

  • Private Services: Private prescribing, particularly for weight-loss drugs like GLP-1s, will continue to grow. This area is expected to face increased scrutiny and regulation following the government’s recent call for evidence.

Tensions and Teamwork: GPs vs. Pharmacy

Continued friction over funding, especially with the Pharmacy First scheme, may impact the relationship between GPs and pharmacists in 2026.

Recent tensions, highlighted by a controversial letter from the BMA, point to an ongoing “lack of understanding” about the pharmacist’s role among some medical colleagues. A shift in professional culture will be needed as pharmacists take on greater clinical responsibilities, such as the ability to amend prescriptions to address medicine shortages, making collaboration between GPs and pharmacists increasingly important.

New powers to amend prescriptions, likely to be introduced next year, could be a game-changer for patients. Pharmacists would be able to supply alternative formulations during shortages without sending patients back to their GP, saving time and improving access to medicines.

Looking Forward

2026 promises to be a year of “massive changes.” From the birth of a Royal College to the rollout of the NHS ten-year plan and a workforce of new prescribers, the profession is evolving rapidly.

While challenges remain, particularly around funding and workforce support, the opportunities for pharmacists to expand their clinical role and improve patient care have never been greater.

For the full discussion and deeper insights into these predictions, listen to the complete episode of “The PJ Pod” on The Pharmaceutical Journal’s website.