COVID Broke Me: Ex-Pharmacist's Shocking Story

Amit Dhand, who served as a pharmacist for over two decades, experienced the devastating financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to the closure of his pharmacy. This challenging period inspired him to channel his experiences into a new crime thriller series.

His latest novel, "The Kingpin," explores provocative themes, including an anti-hero pharmacist contemplating an ethical approach to controlling the drug market in West Yorkshire with an ex-criminal. The narrative prompts reflection on current addiction treatment models.

Dhand expresses concerns about the precarious state of community pharmacies, citing rising operational costs, unreliable supply chains, and increased demand. He underscores their vital role, noting that their sudden closure would have dire consequences for public health.

Reflecting on his past, Dhand recalls the significant financial losses incurred due to medication shortages and fluctuating government reimbursements, even for commonly prescribed drugs. This starkly contrasts with his early career earnings and the current stagnant locum rates.

The author also shared a poignant personal anecdote about a patient's death, underscoring the critical, often unseen, role pharmacists play in monitoring patient well-being. This event profoundly affected him and highlighted the deep community connections they foster.