Recent news reported on regulatory action taken by the GPhC against pharmacists for failures to comply with its guidance on remote prescribing of weight management drugs. Are you complying with the GPhC’s recently published updated guidance that all online pharmacies are expected to follow, in response to concerns identified relating to unsafe prescribing and supply of medicines online?
The General Pharmaceutical Council’s (GPhC) updated guidance for online pharmacies prescribing weight-loss drugs. Key points include:
- Verification of Patient Information: Online pharmacies must independently verify a patient’s weight, height, and/or BMI before prescribing weight-loss medications. Methods like video consultations, accessing medical records, or contacting the patient’s doctor are recommended.
- Stricter Prescribing Measures: Sole reliance on online questionnaires or phone calls for prescribing obesity drugs is no longer acceptable. This aims to ensure patients receive appropriate care and minimize harm.
- High-Risk Medicines: GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as Wegovy and Mounjaro, are now classified as high-risk medicines due to their potential for misuse.
- Governance and Competency: Pharmacies must have governance arrangements to manage risks and ensure staff have the necessary skills, qualifications, and competence to prescribe weight-loss medications.
- Environment and Privacy: Pharmacies must maintain safe, clean premises that protect the privacy and dignity of patients.
Non-compliance with the General Pharmaceutical Council’s (GPhC) guidelines on prescribing weight-loss drugs can lead to several serious consequences:
- Regulatory Actions: The GPhC has the authority to take enforcement measures against pharmacies that fail to comply. This could include suspending or revoking the pharmacy’s licence to operate.
- Legal Repercussions: Non-compliance may result in legal actions, including fines or lawsuits, especially if patient harm occurs due to improper prescribing practices.
- Reputational Damage: Pharmacies that do not adhere to the guidelines risk losing public trust, which can significantly impact their business and credibility.
- Patient Safety Risks: Failure to follow the guidelines can lead to inappropriate prescribing, increasing the risk of adverse effects or misuse of weight-loss medications.
- Increased Scrutiny: Non-compliant pharmacies may face heightened inspections and monitoring by regulatory bodies.
How we can help you
Whether your pharmacy is facing an inspection by the General Pharmaceutical Council, working on a GPhC improvement plan, looking to proactively address regulatory issues or concerns and/or part of your businesses due diligence, mock inspections can hold important benefits.
Kings View Resolutions offer a range of legal and compliance services to pharmacists and pharmacies:
- Regulatory Compliance
- Internal Training
- Conducting Internal Investigations
- Preparing for Independent Investigations & Reviews
- Mock Inspections
- Whistleblowing Services
- Crisis Management
As leaders in our field, we are set up and able to deal with the most complex cases with sensitivity and in a timely manner, always open and transparent about our fees and charges. If your business is facing regulatory issues or you are not sure and require advice and support, speak to one of our legal consultants today.
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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.
