Pharmacist Suspended for Cannabis Use and Failure to Notify Conviction

In a recent determination by the General Pharmaceutical Council’s Fitness to Practise Committee, a pharmacist was found to have impaired fitness to practise due to misconduct and a criminal conviction. The pharmacist, who was not present at the hearing, faced allegations of consuming cannabis between March 2020 and August 2020, being convicted for possession of cannabis, and failing to notify the GPhC of this conviction within the required 7-day period.

The Committee found all allegations proved. The pharmacist had previously appeared before the Committee in 2019 for similar issues related to cannabis use and had been suspended for five months. Despite assurances of insight and commitment to abstinence, the pharmacist relapsed into cannabis use, leading to a police arrest and subsequent conviction.

The GPhC determined that the pharmacist’s actions breached several professional standards, including the use of professional judgment, acting in a professional manner, and speaking up when things go wrong. The Committee emphasized the seriousness of the misconduct, particularly given the pharmacist’s previous assurances and the impact on public confidence in the profession.

As a result, the pharmacist was suspended for 12 months, with a review before the order ends. The Committee highlighted the need for the pharmacist to demonstrate insight, address cannabis use, and provide evidence of sustained abstinence and professional development.

This case serves as a reminder to pharmacy professionals of the importance of maintaining professional standards and the consequences of failing to adhere to regulatory requirements. It underscores the need for honesty and transparency with the regulator, particularly in matters involving criminal convictions.