Pharmacist’s Fitness to Practise Impaired Due to Mismanagement of Controlled Drugs

Date of Decision: September 6, 2022

Registrant's Role: Pharmacist

Allegations:

• Failure to ensure controlled drug entries were accurate and up to date.
• Failure to maintain a tidy and hygienic pharmacy environment.
• Failure to carry out regular balance checks of controlled drugs.
• Failure to remove expired medicines from shelves.

Outcome: Suspension (4 months)

GPhC Standards Breached:

• Standard 5: Safe management of Controlled Drugs
• Standard 8: Maintaining a tidy and hygienic pharmacy

Case Summary

In a recent determination by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), a pharmacist was found to have impaired fitness to practise due to significant mismanagement of controlled drugs and failure to maintain a tidy and hygienic pharmacy environment. The pharmacist, who owned and operated a pharmacy, admitted to several allegations, including failing to ensure controlled drug entries were accurate and up to date, and not carrying out regular balance checks. These issues persisted over a period of 17 months, despite interventions and advice from GPhC inspectors.

The GPhC’s findings highlighted that the pharmacist’s actions had the potential to put patients at risk and brought the pharmacy profession into disrepute. The pharmacist’s failure to comply with previously imposed conditions, such as developing a Personal Development Plan and collaborating with a supervisor, further demonstrated a lack of remediation and insight into the misconduct.

The GPhC determined that the pharmacist’s fitness to practise remained impaired and imposed a suspension for four months. The decision emphasized the need for the pharmacist to develop a clear plan to prevent future misconduct, including a robust system for managing controlled drugs and ensuring proper staffing levels.

This case serves as a critical reminder for pharmacy professionals about the importance of adhering to regulatory standards, maintaining accurate records, and ensuring a safe and hygienic environment. It underscores the necessity for continuous professional development and the implementation of effective management strategies to uphold the integrity of the pharmacy profession.

Original Case Document

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