Jul 15, 2026
What does community pharmacy really contribute to the NHS, and why is it still so often misunderstood?
In this episode, Tara is joined once again by Shilpa Shah, CEO of Community Pharmacy North East London, an award-winning pharmacist and Royal Pharmaceutical Society Fellow with more than 26 years of experience in community pharmacy.
Together, they explore:
- How Pharmacy First is transforming patient care and easing pressure on GP practices.
- Why stronger collaboration between community pharmacy, primary care and neighbourhood teams is essential.
- The financial realities facing pharmacies, from funding gaps to medicine shortages.
- The growing role of prevention, independent prescribing and community-based healthcare.
- Practical examples of innovation and leadership that demonstrate the untapped potential of community pharmacy.
Drawing on her extensive leadership experience and passion for championing the profession, Shilpa shares honest insights into the challenges pharmacies face every day, and why investing in community pharmacy is key to building a more sustainable NHS.