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Publishing inspection reports a vital step, says RPS

The General Pharmaceutical Council has today published an analysis of over 14,000 inspection reports and a pharmacy inspection website so that members of the public and those working in pharmacy can find information about the pharmacies they use and work in.

President of the Royal Pharmaceutical Society Sandra Gidley said:

“Publishing inspection reports is a vital step to protecting the public and ensuring an accurate picture of pharmacy practice.

“The website and the overall analysis report provide welcome transparency on how well pharmacies are performing. The good news is that the vast majority (over 85%) meet all the inspection standards. The improvement action plans for those not meeting the standards support pharmacy teams to change their practice and bring reassurance to the public that steps are being taken to address any shortfalls.

“The impact of good governance and systems on effective service provision couldn’t be clearer from this report.  Pharmacists often work under enormous pressure made worse by system failures and end up taking personal responsibility for things beyond their control. This is a huge cause of workplace stress and a barrier to best practice. Pharmacists want to work in good pharmacies, with good systems and culture and these inspection reports will help with this. Improving governance, investing in staff and great leadership will reduce workplace stresses and barriers to best practice.

“The regulator’s report demonstrates that the public are receiving services of a consistent standard. The website’s knowledge hub for pharmacy professionals will also encourage the sharing of good practice and improve outcomes for patients.

“The RPS is here to help support pharmacists. If members want to discuss their inspection report they can contact our professional support team.”

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