The General Pharmaceutical Council tells community pharmacies to ensure they comply with standards of safe care.
Duncan Rudkin, Chief Executive and Registrar and Roz Gittins, Chief Pharmacy Officer and Deputy Registrar wrote:
“We are writing to you at a time when the provision of a wider range of services by community pharmacies is increasing across Great Britain. These services include Pharmacy First in England, NHS Pharmacy First in Scotland, and the Common Ailments Service in Wales.
“We know that pharmacy teams are offering a wider range of services whilst there continue to be significant pressures and demands on community pharmacy services.
“With any service being provided, we expect you, as pharmacy owners and superintendent pharmacists, to carefully consider how you will meet the standards for registered pharmacies and supporting guidance, including the guidance to support a safe and effective pharmacy team.“
When last did you read the GPhC’s standards?
The GPhC’s standards are critically important for any pharmacy owner or pharmacist. It is vitally important they understand the standards and the consequences of not complying with them.
A brief overview of GPhC’s standards. They are grouped under five principles. The principles are referred to as “the backbone” of the GPhC’s regulatory approach and are all equally important.
Principle 1: The governance arrangements safeguard the health, safety and wellbeing of patients and the public.
Principle 2: Staff are empowered and competent to safeguard the health, safety and wellbeing of patients and the public.
Principle 3: The environment and condition of the premises from which pharmacy services are provided, and any associated premises, safeguard the health, safety and wellbeing of patients and the public.
Principle 4: The way in which pharmacy services, including the management of medicines and medical devices, are delivered safeguards the health, safety and wellbeing of patients and the public.
Principle 5: The equipment and facilities used in the provision of pharmacy services safeguard the health, safety and wellbeing of patients and the public.
Whilst blowing and the Duty of Candour
The GPhC also wrote:
All members of the pharmacy teams must have the ability to raise any concerns in a professional environment which encourages openness, honesty and continuing development and learning.”
Whistleblowing is one of the most serious claims an employee can bring against their employer. Whistleblowing & claims can result in substantial reputational and financial (compensation) damage for your business or organisation Whistleblowing is often incredibly complex and technical in nature.
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Disclaimer: This article is for guidance purposes only. Kings View Chambers accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever for any action taken, or not taken, in relation to this article. You should seek the appropriate legal advice having regard to your own particular circumstances.
