Pharmacist’s Misconduct in Online Prescribing Leads to Suspension
Date of Decision: February 9, 2023
Registrant's Role: Pharmacist
Allegations:
- Failure to prescribe within the limits of competency and/or scope of prescribing practice.
- Failure to prescribe in accordance with GMC Good practice in prescribing and managing medicines and devices guidance.
- Failure to prescribe medication in such a way as to safeguard patients and minimize the risk of medication being misused, overused, or abused.
- Specific failures in prescribing practices for multiple patients, including inadequate consultations and lack of communication with GPs.
Outcome: Suspension for 10 months, with review
GPhC Standards Breached:
- Standard 1: Provide person-centred care
- Standard 2: Work in partnership with others
- Standard 5: Use professional judgement
- Standard 8: Speak up when things go wrong
- Standard 9: Demonstrate leadership
Case Summary
In a recent determination by the General Pharmaceutical Council’s Fitness to Practise Committee, a pharmacist was found guilty of misconduct due to improper prescribing practices while working at an online pharmacy. The pharmacist, who was employed at Instant E-Care Ltd, prescribed medications for various conditions without adequate training or evidence of competency. The allegations included failing to prescribe within the limits of competency, not adhering to GMC guidelines, and not safeguarding patients against medication misuse. Specific cases involved prescribing high-risk medications like opioids and z-drugs without proper consultations or communication with patients’ GPs.
The Committee found that the pharmacist’s actions breached several GPhC standards, including providing person-centred care, using professional judgment, and demonstrating leadership. Despite the pharmacist’s admissions and expressions of remorse, the Committee determined that the misconduct was serious enough to warrant a 10-month suspension from practice, with a review before reinstatement.
The determination highlighted the importance of adhering to professional standards and the risks associated with online prescribing without adequate safeguards. Pharmacy professionals are reminded of the critical need to ensure competency in their practice areas and to maintain robust communication with other healthcare providers to ensure patient safety. This case serves as a cautionary tale for pharmacists, emphasizing the need for vigilance and adherence to regulatory guidelines in all aspects of their practice.
Original Case Document
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