Pharmacist Suspended for Six Months Following Methadone Dispensing Errors and Lack of Integrity
Date of Decision: April 29, 2024
Registrant's Role: Pharmacist
Allegations:
- Supplied methadone to Patient A without a legally valid prescription
- Failed to maintain accurate Controlled Drug Register records
- Acted dishonestly when questioned by Patient A’s GP
- Demonstrated a lack of integrity by asking the GP not to report a dispensing error
- Dispensed methadone contrary to the directions on prescriptions
Outcome: Six month suspension
GPhC Standards Breached:
- Standard 6: Pharmacy professionals must act with honesty and integrity
- Standard 8: Pharmacy professionals must be open and honest when things go wrong
Case Summary
The GPhC Fitness to Practise Committee reviewed the case of a pharmacist, referred to here as “the registrant,” who faced allegations of serious dispensing errors, failure to maintain controlled drug records, and dishonesty in handling a dispensing error report.
This case highlights significant breaches of controlled drug regulations, professional integrity, and open communication with healthcare professionals.
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- Full allegations considered by the GPhC/PSNI
- Panel findings and reasoning
- Outcome of the investigation
- Sanctions considered and imposed on the Pharmacist
- Key professional learning points
Original Case Document
The original determination document is available to registered users.