Provision of antiviral medication for influenza-like illness through NHS community pharmacy providers

The NHS Surrey Heartlands Integrated Care Board has updated and awarded a contract for the provision of antiviral medication to tackle influenza-like illnesses through local community pharmacy providers in Surrey Heartlands. The tender falls under the pharmacy services category, with a CPV classification of 85149000, and involves services within the region designated as UKJ25. This procurement involves a two-year contract starting from 1st November 2025 until 31st October 2027, with an approximate value of £2,000.

The recent award phase was carried out under the Provider Selection Regime as of 17th September 2025, following an intention-to-award notice facilitated through a direct award process without a competitive tender due to continuity and high standards in previous service delivery. This contract provides significant opportunities for pharmacies, especially those with expertise in community services, to bolster their business growth by engaging in public health provision roles. Pharmacies that are able to integrate and collaborate within local health system pathways will be particularly well-placed, as they support the shared care model to manage the distribution of workload.

With pharmacies acting as pivotal points in primary care, potential contractors can anticipate an increase in service demand, especially during peak flu seasons, enhancing their visibility and reliance within the community. This arrangement also supports local economies and aligns with broader goals of health system resilience and improved access, thereby offering strategic business advantages for pharmacies looking to expand their healthcare service offerings within the UK.