Understand the history of the Responsible Pharmacist Regulation
Comprehend key responsibilities of the Responsible Pharmacist (RP)
Learn what actions can be taken in the absence of a Responsible Pharmacist
Apply knowledge of responsibilities in practical scenarios
RESPONSIBLE PHARMACIST - KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Primary Objective: Secure the safe and effective running of a registered pharmacy
Reminder of standards for pharmacy professionals is crucial to maintaining effectiveness
FULFILLING THE ROLE
Definition: The Responsible Pharmacist is appointed by the employer and is accountable for the pharmacy's operations.
Continues to maintain responsibility even during periods of their absence
LEGAL REQUIREMENTS
A Responsible Pharmacist must:
Ensure the pharmacy operates safely and effectively, including during absences.
Display a notice indicating their name, registration number, and that they are in charge.
Complete a pharmacy record identifying who the Responsible Pharmacist is at any given time.
Establish, maintain, and regularly review procedures for safe working practices.
SECURING SAFE OPERATIONS
Clearly define the scope and responsibilities in the role.
Make sure to clarify ambiguities with the pharmacy owner/superintendent.
Only undertake the role if professionally competent and ensure that operational activities are prioritized only when safety and effectiveness are confirmed.
DISPLAYING THE NOTICE
Requirements for the Notice:
Must be displayed conspicuously in the registered pharmacy.
Include the named RP, their registration number, and a statement that they are in charge.
COMPLETING THE PHARMACY RECORD
Essential elements for including in the pharmacy record:
RP's name and registration number
Dates and times for when the RP begins and ceases their role
Reporting of absence must include the commencement time and duration
Record must be kept accurately for five years, either electronically or manually. Any amendments require initials and dates for traceability.
PHARMACY PROCEDURES
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs):
Serve as the framework for safe and effective pharmacy operations.
The RP must establish, maintain, and review these procedures every two years or after incidents.
Records must accurately identify the RP who reviews the procedures and indicate any amendments with an audit trail.
RESPONSIBLE PHARMACIST ABSENCE
A Responsible Pharmacist can be absent for a maximum of two hours per day. If absent:
Must remain contactable and able to return promptly.
If they cannot return, they must arrange for another pharmacist to be available.
Certain NHS regulations apply regarding pharmacist absence.
ABSENCE NOTICE
In absence, staff cannot:
Supply GSL medicines based on prescriptions without a secondary pharmacist.
Sell or supply P medicines without a second pharmacist present.
Hand out checked medicines unless under supervision of a second pharmacist.
Supply any medicines if the RP is absent for over two hours unless another RP is appointed.
ACTIVITIES WHERE AN RP IS IN CHARGE
Activities allowed with RP present and supervising:
Professional checking of prescriptions, sale/supply of pharmacy and POM (prescription-only medicines) medicines.
Activities without physical presence:
Dispensing processes such as assembly and labelling.
ACTIVITIES NOT REQUIRING A RESPONSIBLE PHARMACIST
Activities such as:
Ordering and receiving stock including CDs (controlled drugs).
Administrative tasks and cleaning do not require the RP's supervision.
CURRENT/FUTURE DEBATE ON LEGISLATION
There are ongoing considerations about changes in supervision requirements by the Pharmacy Board.
Legislation updates (December 2022) allow GPhC to define professional roles and responsibilities for pharmacists.
RP SCENARIOS
SCENARIO 1
As an RP already absent for two hours, assess the situation and take necessary action based on company protocols.
SCENARIO 2
Consider the legality of contactability for another pharmacist across different pharmacies.
SCENARIO 3
Evaluate legal implications of taking on responsibilities for another pharmacy while being an RP elsewhere.
SCENARIO 4
Clarify if GSL medicines can be dispensed by staff in your absence.
SCENARIO 5
Communicate effectively about customer transactions if late arriving at the pharmacy.
SCENARIO 6
Determine policies related to the new RP's ability to take absences after a handover.
REFERENCES
Being a responsible pharmacist | General Pharmaceutical Council