Jonathan Bridgett, Tesco Pharmacy services manager, said: ‘We know how important it is for people to get their blood pressure checked, and seeing some of the survey results shows that many people don’t realise just how convenient and quick a free check-in a Tesco Pharmacy can be, especially without the need for an appointment.
Alongside the closures, Tesco recently shared it would be launching free NHS blood pressure checks at its in-store pharmacy branches, with aim of helping to ‘detect cases of undiagnosed high blood pressure and prevent cardiovascular events like heart attacks and strokes’.
Last year, National Pharmacy Association chief executive Paul Rees warned the Autumn budget would pile more pressure on already financially strained pharmacies, including the hike on employer National Insurance Contributions from 13.8% to 15%.
Despite the announcement of £22.6 billion in funding for the NHS, Rees said: ‘There’s absolutely no mention in the budget of action to halt the closure of our vital NHS pharmacy network, which has been shrinking at the rate of seven a week as pharmacies are forced to close through underfunding.’.
Staff will put up clear signage in the closing locations to alert customers ahead of time, with details signposting shoppers to their nearest alternative pharmacy – which Tesco promises will be within a five-mile radius.
