The Dudley Pharmaceutical Needs Assessment (PNA) is a report that assesses the current and future pharmaceutical service needs of a local population.
It's a statutory document, usually produced every three years that helps Health and Wellbeing Boards, like the one in Dudley, understand where pharmaceutical services are needed and where they might be lacking. This information is then used to make decisions about commissioning new NHS-funded pharmacy services and ensuring adequate provision of pharmaceutical care.
Read our PNA
Following approval by the Health and Wellbeing Board, Dudley's 2025 PNA was published on 26 September 2025.
What is the purpose of the PNA?
Assessment of Need:
The PNA looks at the current state of pharmaceutical services (like pharmacies) in an area, including what services they offer and their locations.
Future Needs:
It also considers the future needs of the population, taking into account factors like demographics, health trends, and potential changes in the types of services that might be needed.
Informs Commissioning:
The PNA is a key tool for NHS Integrated Care Boards and local Health and Wellbeing Boards when making decisions about commissioning new pharmacies or expanding existing services.