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Still unsure what the new regulations mean for you in practice? Here's C+D's cut out and keep guide to help you comply with the law
Responsible pharmacist? Aren't we all responsible pharmacists?
Well, yes, but from October 1 new responsible pharmacist (RP) regulations replaced the concept of personal control. They state that every pharmacy must have an RP who is legally responsible for the safe and effective running of that pharmacy.
RPs are responsible for establishing, maintaining and reviewing pharmacy procedures.
THE LAW: if a pharmacy does not have an RP it is operating illegally.
So might I be the responsible pharmacist?
There are no additional training requirements to be an RP. If you are the only pharmacist working in the pharmacy then you will be the RP if you accept that responsibility. If there is more than one pharmacist working you need to check with your employer who the RP is.
REMEMBER: pharmacists with a qualification gained in another EU state may not be the RP in a pharmacy that has been open for less than three years.
What do RPs need to know, then?
There are three main things RPs need to do to comply with the law: confirm appropriateness of SOPs on the day, update and maintain the...