Pharmacist Suspended for Cocaine and Cannabis Use Amid GPhC Investigation
Date of Decision: February 5, 2019
Registrant's Role: Pharmacist
Allegations:
- Consumption of cocaine, a Class A controlled drug, between mid-March 2017 and mid-June 2017.
- Consumption of cannabis, a Class B controlled drug, between December 2017 and July 2018.
- Suffering from a health condition, the nature of which is outlined in a private schedule.
Outcome: Suspension for 5 months with a review hearing required.
GPhC Standards Breached:
- Standard 6 – Be honest and trustworthy.
- Standard 6.5 – Meet accepted standards of personal and professional conduct.
- Standard 6.6 – Comply with legal and professional requirements and accepted guidance on professional practice.
- Standard 7 – Take responsibility for your working practices.
- Standard 7.8 – Ensure your actions do not impede others’ legal and professional responsibilities or pose a risk to patient care or public safety.
Case Summary
Allegations
The case concerned a pharmacist whose fitness to practise was called into question following allegations involving the misuse of controlled substances and concerns about his health. Specifically, the registrant admitted to consuming cocaine (a Class A controlled drug) between mid-March and mid-June 2017, and cannabis (a Class B controlled drug) between December 2017 and July 2018. A third allegation was made regarding an ongoing health condition, which was eventually dismissed. The misconduct was considered in the context of both personal behaviour and professional responsibilities, especially considering the registrant’s awareness of being under GPhC investigation at the time of continued substance use.
Findings
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- Full allegations considered by the GPhC
- Panel findings and reasoning
- Outcome of the investigation
- Sanctions considered and imposed on the Pharmacist
- Key professional learning points
Original Case Document
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The original determination transcript is available to registered users.
- Download the official GPhC determination
- Full hearing transcript
- Detailed findings of fact
- Sanction reasoning
- Details of the pharmacy professionals involved