Pharmacy type
Community
Pharmacy context
COVID-19
Relevant standards
- 2.2 - Staff have the appropriate skills, qualifications and competence for their role and the tasks they carry out, or are working under the supervision of another person while they are in training
Why this is notable practice
The company is providing continuous support for a provisionally registered pharmacist during the demanding circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic. Changes to planned working patterns are discussed with the provisionally registered pharmacist and are only implemented by mutual agreement.
How the pharmacy did this
The company employed a provisionally registered pharmacist and had completed a risk assessment for them. They had put a plan in place to help them keep up with their studies in preparation for the registration assessment, and to release them for study time when the date for this was confirmed. The provisionally registered pharmacist had also been entered for a mock exam provided by the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) to gain experience of the types of questions they would be required to answer. The company set up a working pattern to ensure the provisionally registered pharmacist was fully supported. This included limiting the time they were required to work as the sole pharmacist. And on occasions when the company requested the provisionally registered pharmacist to work as responsible pharmacist (RP) at short notice, the superintendent pharmacist discussed the change with them. This discussion took place to ensure the provisionally registered pharmacist felt comfortable with the staffing levels and workload prior to working as RP. A group of pharmacists employed by the company was available for peer support. A mentor contacted the provisionally registered pharmacist on a regular basis to provide further support and advice.
What difference this made to patients
The provisionally registered pharmacist is continuously supported and works within their competence providing a good service for people. They can draw on the experience and knowledge of other pharmacists to improve their knowledge and skills to ensure the best outcomes for people using the pharmacy.
Highlighted standards
We have identified the standards most likely and least likely to be met in inspections, and highlighted examples of notable practice for each of these standards; to help everyone learn from others and to support continuous improvement: