With new hub and spoke legislation drawing increasingly closer, this model of dispensing is drawing increased attention and plenty of questions. While the model has the potential to modernise operations and improve clinical service delivery, several persistent misconceptions still cloud the conversation.
In our latest blog our Director of Sales & Marketing, Louise Laban, challenges those myths and shines a light on the realities of what hub and spoke dispensing can offer, especially for independent pharmacies and small groups.
One of the most widespread misconceptions is that hub and spoke dispensing is simply a cost-saving initiative. While efficiency can lead to better resource management, the true value of hub and spoke lies in freeing up in-store capacity. This enables pharmacies to focus more on delivering clinical services - a key priority under the latest funding contract. It also provides the opportunity to deliver more private services as a key revenue generator for pharmacies.
It’s often assumed that only the largest chains can adopt a hub and spoke model without relying on external providers. However, we’ve identified four business models that demonstrate viable options for independents and small groups:
We will be talking about these four models of hub and spoke at this year’s Pharmacy Show. Visit us at stand B30 or attend our talk in the Pharmacy Owners Forum on Sunday, October 12 at 11.50am.
This simply isn’t true. Viable hubs currently in operation are successfully processing as few as 30,000 prescriptions per month. The key is choosing the right model and scale that aligns with your business.
While setting up a large-scale hub can be costly, hub solutions today start at just below £80,000, with the majority achieving a return on investment within two years. That’s a far more accessible entry point than many assume.
There’s a fear that centralising dispensing will delay medication delivery. In fact, most hubs we work with operate next-day turnaround as standard. Many patients receive their medication faster than they would through traditional in-store dispensing.
Not anymore. Today’s hub and spoke software provides complete prescription visibility throughout the process, even allowing the spoke pharmacy to recall prescriptions for local dispensing when needed. Transparency and control are fully maintained.
Another misconception. The reality? Modern pharmacy hubs are processing up to 80% of repeat prescription items and 60% of overall items, dramatically increasing operational efficiency without compromising patient care.
Hub and spoke dispensing is not a one-size-fits-all model and it’s certainly not just for big players. With scalable, flexible, and affordable options available, this model is a realistic and strategic choice for pharmacy groups of all sizes.
By moving past the myths and understanding the genuine possibilities, pharmacy businesses can embrace a future that enhances both operational efficiency and clinical care delivery.
Centred Solutions are hub and spoke specialists and have been providing hub and spoke solutions to a range of pharmacy groups for over three years now.
FLOWRx was developed by pharmacy hub and spoke experts with extensive experience of pharmacy and central fulfilment. Our goal is simple: empower pharmacies to dispense more safely, more accurately, and more efficiently. Technology like FLOWRx doesn’t just reduce risk, it redefines the standard of care in modern pharmacies.
Contact us for a demonstration!