The GPhC has responded to a new Pharmacists’ Defence Association (PDA) report 'Beyond Convenience' on the sale of P medicines.
Roz Gittins, Chief Pharmacy Officer at the General Pharmaceutical Council, said:
“We fully agree with the PDA that pharmacists play a crucial role in protecting patients by providing expert advice, ensuring the appropriate use of medicines, and preventing potential drug interactions.
“Our position continues to be that open display of P-medicines is not compatible with regulatory requirements without key safeguards being in place. This includes ensuring continued compliance with the current legal requirement for pharmacist supervision, and assurance that where facilitated self-selection is available, that the systems and processes ensure patient and public safety. We will continue to check for associated compliance as part of our usual regulatory processes, including during inspections of pharmacy premises.
“We look forward to continuing to work closely with the PDA and value their input on this very important issue”.
An FAQ on self-selection and open display on Pharmacy medicines is available on the GPhC website.