Pharmacist Warned for Failing to Safeguard High-Risk Medicines in Online Dispensing Scheme
Date of Decision: May 19, 2025
Registrant's Role: Pharmacist
Allegations:
- Oversaw the dispensing of over 380 private prescriptions for high-risk medicines (e.g. opioids, Z-drugs) in under two months.
- Failed to identify or manage risks associated with online prescribing from a third-party company.
- Did not confirm the appropriateness of the prescribing process, or whether repeat and high-dose prescriptions were being monitored.
- Did not ensure adequate SOPs or governance procedures were in place.
- Admitted he was unaware of GPhC guidance relevant to distance selling.
Outcome: Formal warning issued
GPhC Standards Breached:
- Standard 1 – Provide person-centred care
- Standard 2 – Work in partnership with others
- Standard 5 – Use professional judgement
- Standard 9 – Demonstrate leadership
Case Summary
The case concerns the registrant’s role as Responsible Pharmacist at a community pharmacy in June–August 2021. The owner of the pharmacy had entered into an agreement with a third-party online prescribing service.
Between 16 June and 6 August 2021, the pharmacy dispensed over 380 prescriptions, all involving:
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Original Case Document
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