On June 18, the members of the PharmagoraPlus Steering Committee met in Paris for their first meeting of the year. 

This meeting provided an opportunity to discuss the major changes taking place in the profession and to begin defining the key themes for the 2027 edition of the Professional Forum. 

Topics discussed included elections, the pharmaceutical supply chain, digital technology, artificial intelligence, new initiatives, management, and substitution, with the sovereignty of the French pharmacy sector serving as the central theme. 

 

Pharmacies at the Center of Public Debate 

As the 2027 presidential election approaches, Committee members have emphasized the importance of giving pharmacists a stronger voice. 

The discussions focused on access to care, health care financing, the profession’s new roles, regional networks, and health sovereignty. 

 

What does the economic future hold for the industry? 

The economic situation of the pharmaceutical supply chain was a central focus of the discussions. 

Pharmacists, manufacturers, industry groups, wholesalers and distributors, and logistics providers all contribute to the smooth operation of the supply chain. Committee members therefore discussed the compensation of the various stakeholders, value creation for pharmacies and patients, and the impact of the pharmaceutical agreement. 

 

Digital Technology, Artificial Intelligence, and the Transformation of the Pharmacy 

The Committee discussed how digital technology and artificial intelligence are transforming the way pharmacies are organized, the relationship with patients, and the role of the pharmacist.  

Cybersecurity, data protection, and the ethical and regulatory framework surrounding these developments have also been identified as major challenges. 

 

Substitution and Changes in Responsibilities 

Committee members discussed the growing role of substitution—particularly of biosimilar drugs—and its implications for pharmacy finances, the care pathway, and patient trust. 

The evolving scope of a pharmacist’s responsibilities was also a central focus of the discussions, with the gradual expansion of their role in prevention, screening, vaccination, referral, and prescribing. 

 

Attractiveness and Management 

Finally, recruitment, retaining staff, and making the profession attractive remain major concerns for pharmacies. 

Committee members discussed the need to better recognize the contributions of assistant pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, and students, while also evolving management and human resources practices. 

This first meeting laid the groundwork for a collaborative effort that closely reflects the realities of the pharmacy. 

A big thank you to the members of the Steering Committee for their insightful discussions and valuable contributions.