Pharmacist Removed from Register Due to Dangerous Driving Conviction and Misconduct

In a recent determination by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) Fitness to Practise Committee, a pharmacist was removed from the register following a conviction for dangerous driving and subsequent misconduct. The hearing took place on 9-10 November 2023, where the pharmacist was present and represented by legal counsel.

Allegations
The pharmacist faced two primary allegations: a conviction for dangerous driving on 11 October 2022, and a failure to notify the GPhC of this conviction within the required 7-day period. The conviction stemmed from an incident on 29 October 2021, where the pharmacist’s dangerous driving on the M6 motorway led to a collision, resulting in a 10-month custodial sentence.

Findings
The Committee found both allegations proved. The pharmacist admitted to the facts, and the Committee determined that these actions amounted to misconduct. The dangerous driving incident was described as aggressive and highly dangerous, with the potential to cause significant harm.

GPhC Determination on Impairment
The Committee concluded that the pharmacist’s fitness to practise was impaired due to the seriousness of the conviction and the failure to report it. The pharmacist’s actions were found to breach GPhC Standards 6 and 9, which require pharmacy professionals to behave professionally and demonstrate leadership.

Sanction
The Committee decided on removal from the register as the appropriate sanction, citing the pharmacist’s conduct as fundamentally incompatible with being a registered professional. An interim suspension was also imposed, effective immediately, to protect the public and uphold public confidence in the profession.

Learning Points for Pharmacy Professionals
This case underscores the importance of adhering to professional standards both in and out of practice. Pharmacy professionals must promptly report any convictions to the GPhC to maintain transparency and trust. The case also highlights the severe consequences of dangerous driving and the critical need for pharmacy professionals to demonstrate leadership and professionalism at all times.