Scotland’s community pharmacies are pushing hard to lead a new national NHS weight loss service. In a manifesto released on September 2, 2025, Community Pharmacy Scotland calls for government support to help one in three Scots with obesity access safe weight loss medicines through local pharmacies.
Manifesto Highlights Key Health Priorities
Community Pharmacy Scotland unveiled its 2026 manifesto ahead of the Scottish Parliament elections. The document outlines seven main policy goals to boost pharmacy roles in health care.
This push comes as obesity affects about 29% of adults in Scotland, according to recent Public Health Scotland data. Pharmacies argue they can deliver services closer to home, easing pressure on GPs and hospitals.
The manifesto stresses prevention, early detection, and treatment. It builds on existing programs like Pharmacy First, which served 1.9 million people last year.
- National weight loss service to provide safe access to medicines like semaglutide.
- Funded substance use program, expanding naloxone distribution to fight overdoses.
- Screening for diabetes and heart issues to catch problems early.
Leaders say these steps could save the NHS millions by reducing hospital visits.
Tackling Obesity Through Local Access
Obesity remains a major issue in Scotland, with rates climbing over the past decade. The manifesto proposes pharmacies as the main hub for weight management, offering advice, monitoring, and prescriptions without appointments.
This aligns with UK-wide trends. In England, pilots for weight loss programs in pharmacies are set to launch by summer 2026, backed by £85 million in funding. Scotland could follow suit, experts suggest.
Pharmacies already reach 90% of adults yearly, making them ideal for widespread access. The plan includes support for lifestyle changes alongside drugs.
One table shows obesity trends:
| Year | Adult Obesity Rate in Scotland (%) | Source Insight |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 28 | Public Health Scotland |
| 2023 | 29 | Latest surveys |
| 2025 | Projected 30 | Health forecasts |
This data highlights the urgent need for action.
CPS Chief Executive Matt Barclay stated that pharmacies are trusted community spots ready to tackle obesity and other issues.
Expanding Services for Women and More
The manifesto also focuses on women’s health. It calls for broader services covering contraception, menopause, and beyond.
This builds on the 2021 Scottish Women’s Health Plan. Pharmacies already offer emergency contraception and advice on UTIs, but CPS wants to expand to reduce waits at specialist clinics.
In addition, the plan pushes for better IT systems. Pharmacies seek full integration with NHS records to improve care coordination.
Without this, delays in treatment persist. A recent survey showed 95% of pharmacists view record access as vital.
Addressing Broader NHS Challenges
Scotland’s health system faces ongoing pressures, including drug shortages and GP access issues. The CPS manifesto ties into calls for reform from health leaders and charities.
For instance, recent reports highlight fears over pharmacy ownership changes, like potential shifts at Boots. Such moves could impact service delivery.
AI tools are discussed in health care, but experts agree they cannot replace personal pharmacy care. Human interaction remains key for trust and accuracy.
The manifesto avoids some topics, like direct calls for record access, which the Royal Pharmaceutical Society prioritizes. Instead, it emphasizes infrastructure investment.
Potential Impact and Next Steps
If adopted, these changes could transform community health. Early detection programs might prevent thousands of diabetes cases yearly, based on similar UK initiatives.
With elections approaching, political parties are urged to respond. Investment in pharmacies could cut NHS waiting times and costs.
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