For many years I have specialised in the application of the Pharmaceutical Regulations. These set out the basis upon which pharmacies, whether run by individuals or companies, supply NHS services, generally regulating the entry of participants on the basis of need. They also permit in certain circumstances and where an area is entirely rural, supply by doctors of pharmaceutical services from dispensaries attached to their surgeries, usually in circumstances in which the establishment of a normal independent pharmacy is not commercially possible.

Until recently I have usually acted for rural doctors in the regulatory process, but the NHS scene is ever changing and increasingly there are new entrants to this complex field. Although I continue to be a legal adviser to the Dispensing Doctors Association, I am happy to act for either doctor or pharmacist (provided of course there is no conflict with the interest of an existing client), and whether in a rural or an urban [‘non-controlled’ in the language of the Regulations] context.

The Regulations and their working are extremely complex. It can sometimes happen that health authorities and even appeal bodies misunderstand or misapply the law and procedures concerned, and I have been involved with a number of judicial review decisions seeking clarification of the law or overturning decisions taken in error. Should you be involved in this area in any way, I respectfully suggest you do not put a foot into it without first taking legal advice.

My experience includes the approaches of the various health authorities around the country and the two appeal authorities, in England and Wales. I am able to offer a free initial consultation, usually by telephone or e-mail. It is also however often helpful to meet and for me to examine the situation on the ground. It is particularly difficult for example to advise on 'rurality', for example, without having a look in person. I can usually arrange an early appointment anywhere in England and Wales.

I am also able to advise on other legal matters, such as partnership, company, and related questions, which often flow from pharmaceutical regulation situations. I do not deal with questions of negligence or professional conduct.

Please feel free to contact me at any time, or send me brief details of any particular problem using the attached form, which on completion can be automatically e-mailed to me. I will be in touch as soon as I can.