Medicines procurement is one of the fastest growing specialties within pharmacy services and with the implementation of Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) and specialist commissioning teams in April 2013, we are seeing one of the biggest changes to procurement in the NHS. There have been numerous developments and strategic changes over the past few years, including the Audit Commission report on procurement, changes to the Pharmaceutical Price Regulation Scheme (PPRS), the development of procurement groups and the development of the role of the Commercial Medicines Unit (CMU). 2013 is a key year for medicines procurement and the structure of the NHS. There is a great deal of change over the next year and the BJMP will be publishing articles on the key issues and developments from the perspective of procurement experts .

Medicines procurement is about providing a fast, effective supply service to patients, of the right medicines at the right price, whilst achieving cost-effective purchasing for the local, regional or national healthcare system.This may involve a complex network of business, operational, IT and quality control and risk management systems. Prescribing advice, formulary guidance and issues of clinical governance should be observed and adhered to. The pharmacist’s role in the medicines procurement team is an essential part of the medicines supply group.They act as an interface with clinical staff to ensure that the correct medicine reaches the right patient at the correct formulation and dose, and they ensure that it is in perfect condition when it reaches the patient and that the medicine is available through use of stock management systems, and dispensing software.

The aim of the British Journal of Medicines Procurement is to support medicines procurement professionals across the UK and to provide practical tips and advice on best practice in medicines supply and procurement.

The Pharmaceutical industry will be represented through the medium of ethical corporate sponsorship of the Journal.

Allan Karr (Chair)
Pharmacy Business Services Manager, University College London Hospital

Philip Aubrey
Medicines Procurement Specialist Pharmacist, London and Eastern areas

Jim Armstrong
Former Procurement Specialist Pharmacist, South East Coast

Margaret Dolan
Procurement Specialist Pharmacist, South East Coast

Ron Pate MBE
Pharmaceutical Consultant, Secondary Care Pharmaceutical Adviser, Keele University

David Stead
Medicines Procurement Specialist Pharmacist, NHS South West

Martin Shepherd
Head of Medicines Management, Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust