Changes to phased dispensing under the new Community Pharmacy Agreement is effectively a cost-cutting measure that will compromise patient safety, according to Social Democrats Health spokesperson Pádraig Rice.
Deputy Rice said:
“The Minister claims that the introduction of ‘improved controls’ around phased dispensing is being done in a way that puts patient safety first. However, it will do quite the opposite.
“In reality, these new controls will severely limit phased dispensing and could have far-reaching implications for vulnerable groups.
“Phased dispensing is a vital intervention used to reduce medication errors and prevent avoidable adverse incidents.
“In agreeing to this proposed change, which is effectively a cost-cutting measure, the Minister has shown a lack of understanding of the importance of phased dispensing for some of the most vulnerable patients in this country. These patients should not have been used as a bargaining chip in agreement negotiations.
“We are talking about patients who need help safely managing their medication, such as those with disabilities, multiple longer-term conditions, the homeless and those living with addiction.
“Deep End Ireland, an organisation representing GPs working in the country’s most deprived communities, has warned that these new restrictions on phased dispensing will widen existing health inequalities and shift avoidable clinical risk onto those least able to manage it.
“Phased dispensing exists to protect. The narrowing of it profoundly undermines its effectiveness and puts patient safety at risk.
“The Minister needs to suspend implementation of these changes and go back to the drawing board. There must be an immediate risk impact assessment carried out, specifically examining the effects of the changes on vulnerable groups, and full consultation with frontline clinicians.”
December 4, 2025