New pharmacy plan rejected

Unanimous verdict by NHS Highland committee noting complete lack of support
AN application to introduce a pharmacy into Castletown has been refused following a meeting of the NHS Highland Pharmacy Practices Committee (PPC) which was held last month.
In looking at the application the PPC had to determine whether allowing the application was necessary or desirable in the area.
The committee visited the area in question and they also had the outcome of the applicants and the Health Boards public consultations which showed a complete lack of support for a pharmacy in this area.
While it was acknowledged that there are currently no pharmaceutical services within the area it was agreed that, as residents can access these services easily in Thurso, the applicant had not been successful in proving inadequacy of pharmaceutical services.
The decision to refuse the application was unanimous.