Choosing the right platform shapes speed, security, and editing workflows. Here is a simple decision guide comparing React/Next.js and headless WordPress for pharmacies.
TL;DR
- Pick React/Next.js when speed, security, custom flows (refill, click-and-collect), and granular control matter most.
- Pick headless WordPress when marketing teams need fast publishing with familiar editing and you still want modern performance.
Evaluation criteria
- Performance: React/Next.js with image optimization and server components often ships lighter bundles; headless WP is close if you avoid bloated plugins.
- Security: Next.js + API routes reduce attack surface; headless WP keeps the CMS off the public edge if configured correctly.
- Editing experience: WordPress wins for non-technical editors; React can pair with a lightweight headless CMS (Sanity/Contentful) for structured content.
- Integrations: Refill portals, inventory, and CRM hooks are smoother with custom React; WordPress works fine when APIs are stable and scoped.
- Time-to-launch: Headless WP can launch faster for content-heavy sites; React excels for productized flows needing custom UX.
Recommended stack patterns
React/Next.js
- Frontend: Next.js, TypeScript, tailwind, server components where possible.
- CMS: Sanity or Contentful for structured content (services, FAQs, locations).
- Auth/API: Next.js routes for secure refill/checkouts; edge caching for speed.
Headless WordPress
- CMS: WordPress with a headless theme; lock down plugins, updates, and roles.
- Delivery: Next.js frontend consuming WP GraphQL/REST; deploy on Vercel/Netlify.
- Governance: staging -> preview -> publish; monitor plugin updates and uptime.
When pharmacies choose React/Next.js
- You need secure refill workflows with audit logging and role-based access.
- You want custom click-and-collect with inventory states and notifications.
- You target sub-2s LCP and high Core Web Vitals for SEO and conversions.
When pharmacies choose headless WordPress
- Content team wants WYSIWYG familiarity with blocks and fast updates.
- You need landing pages at pace for seasonal clinics (flu, travel, Strep A).
- You accept managed plugin discipline and regular security patching.
Migration considerations
- Map URL structure and redirects to protect rankings.
- Preserve tracking: GA4, events, phone/refill conversions with UTMs from GBP.
- Rebuild schema: LocalBusiness, Service, FAQ, and Article for top content.
Recommendation
If your priority is secure, high-speed refill and booking flows, start with React/Next.js. If you need fast publishing with a familiar editor, choose headless WordPress and enforce plugin governance. We build both; book a consult to pick the right fit.
Need a partner to implement this? We build compliant websites, custom software, and ongoing SEO programmes for UK pharmacies, dental clinics, and wider healthcare SMEs.
Karad Infotech Ltd
London-based digital, software & SEO partner
We help UK pharmacies, dental practices, and healthcare SMEs attract more patients with compliant websites, custom platforms, and ongoing SEO.
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