Talk to us: 0333 004 4488 | hello@brabners.com | Contact us
As NHS funding cuts continue to impact on primary care and patient waiting times, traditional healthcare providers and new market entrants have spotted an opportunity to offer privatised services to frustrated and disenchanted patients. Increasing numbers are turning to the private sector for timely access to healthcare services such as online consultations and prescriptions, orthodontics and travel vaccinations.
Many of these privatised services make use of digital technologies. The NHS is also looking to these new ways of working to help it deliver more for less. However, as is the case with privatised services, effective regulation of digitally or remotely delivered healthcare services still has some way to go.
Healthcare providers need legal advisers who understand these issues. A partner with the skills to face both the expected and unexpected.
That expertise saw our team shortlisted for Legal Advisor of the Year at the LaingBuisson Awards 2026.
To discuss how we can support you, call 0333 004 4488, email hello@brabners.com or fill in our contact form.
Praised for its ‘genuinely client-focused approach’, our team is led by experienced Partner Richard Hough, a commercial and healthcare regulatory lawyer recognised by The Legal 500. Richard gained extensive experience as a pharmacist before entering the legal profession and advises clients across the pharmacy market on acquisitions, disposals, contracts and much more.
As a team, our advice comprises healthcare-specific regulatory, fitness to practise, corporate transactional, professional conduct, professional negligence, litigation, employment, immigration and property. We have particular expertise in managing large numbers of pharmacy and dental practice sales and acquisitions. We have a particularly strong client base of pharmacy and dental clients, ranging from standalone sites to groups with up to 750 locations, as well as early adopters of online healthcare solutions, GP practices and veterinary product manufacturers and suppliers. We also work with many practising healthcare professionals such as pharmacists, dentists, doctors and paramedics.
Our corporate team can also support you to navigate the complexities of private equity transactions — securing the right deal for you now and well into the future.
We're proud members of the Independent Pharmacies Association and Pharmacy Law and Ethics Association (PLEA).
“Richard Hough stands out for his expertise in healthcare and complex contractual work, assisting clients with terms of business, outsourcing, distribution, agency, franchising and joint venture agreements.”
The Legal 500 2026
“Brabners LLP’s Health practice stands out because of its deep understanding of the healthcare sector and its genuinely client-focused approach. The team doesn’t just offer legal advice—they take the time to understand each client’s specific challenges and provide practical, commercially sound solutions.”
Client feedback, The Legal 500
“Brabners is our first port of call regarding all legal matters. The health team offers an outstanding and extremely responsive service. Its excellent understanding of the sector has enabled the growth and development of our businesses.”
The Maassarani Group
“Richard Hough and the team at Brabners... are one of the leading firms in the country for pharmacy and healthcare expertise and advice. Straight talking, professional and hard working.”
Innox Trading Limited
“The Brabners team has been a fantastic partner in the medical sector. Its deep industry knowledge, practical advice and commercial approach make a real difference, whether navigating transactions or tackling legal challenges. They’re responsive, proactive and genuinely invested in helping clients succeed.”
Managing Director, Christie & Co
“[The training] session was an eye-opener and has made us much more informed about our obligations as sponsor licence holders and when issuing Certificates of Sponsorship.”
Founder & Co-CEO, MSN Lunts Pharmacy Group
“I am extremely grateful to the team at Brabners for their outstanding support and professionalism in preparing me for a coroner’s inquest. The team provided clear, thoughtful guidance throughout a very challenging process and ensured that I was fully prepared for every stage of the proceedings. Their expertise, attention to detail and calm, reassuring approach made an incredibly difficult situation much more manageable. I would not hesitate to recommend Brabners to any healthcare professional requiring expert legal support.”
Healthcare professional participating in inquest proceedings
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