The General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) has released an updated version of its Inspection Decision‑Making Framework, introducing new examples, consolidating guidance, and strengthening expectations around distance‑selling and supervision. For pharmacy owners, the revisions sharpen the regulator’s focus on consistency, risk‑based assessment, and demonstrable compliance—making preparation more important than ever.
Key changes in the updated framework
New examples added across all outcome categories
The framework now includes additional examples illustrating:
- Standards met
- Standards not met
- Areas for improvement
- Good practice
These examples give pharmacy teams clearer insight into how inspectors interpret compliance and where improvements may be required.
Strengthened guidance on distance‑selling
Reflecting ongoing regulatory concerns, the GPhC has expanded examples relating to:
- Safe and clinically appropriate remote supply
- Identity verification
- Safeguarding and risk management
- Oversight of prescribing and supply chains
This signals continued scrutiny of online pharmacy models and reinforces the need for robust governance.
Updated examples reflecting changes in supervision legislation
The framework now incorporates examples aligned with recent changes to supervision requirements, ensuring inspectors apply the updated legal position consistently.
Consolidation of withdrawn documents
Two previously separate documents have now been absorbed into the framework:
- The Findings Framework
- The Inspection Practice Note on Minor Non‑Compliance
Both have been withdrawn, leaving pharmacy teams with a single, comprehensive reference point for inspection expectations.
How Kings View Resolutions can support your pharmacy
With the GPhC sharpening its inspection methodology, many pharmacies are seeking expert support to ensure they remain compliant, resilient, and inspection‑ready. Kings View Resolutions provides specialist legal and regulatory services tailored specifically to pharmacists and pharmacy owners.
Why pharmacies work with Kings View Resolutions
Whether your pharmacy is:
- Preparing for a GPhC inspection
- Responding to an improvement plan
- Managing regulatory concerns
- Conducting due diligence
- Strengthening internal governance
…mock inspections and expert regulatory support can make a critical difference.
Specialist services for pharmacists and pharmacy owners
Kings View Resolutions offers a comprehensive suite of services, including:
- Regulatory compliance
- Internal training
- Conducting internal investigations
- Preparing for independent investigations and reviews
- Mock inspections
- Whistleblowing services
- Crisis management
Experience you can rely on
With 30 years of combined experience and access to a network of industry experts, Kings View Resolutions is equipped to support even the most complex cases. The team works with sensitivity, timeliness, and full transparency around fees, providing practical, actionable advice to help pharmacies achieve and maintain compliance with GPhC standards.
If your business is facing regulatory issues—or if you want to proactively strengthen compliance—speaking to one of their legal consultants can provide clarity and confidence.
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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.
