Hilton Pharmacy (1110209)

Inspection summary findings

Principle 1. Governance

The pharmacy largely identifies and manages the risks associated with the services that it provides. But its risk assessments for its private prescribing service do not fully address the risks involved, which means it may not always operate effectively. And the consultation notes maintained by the pharmacist prescriber do not always contain sufficient information which may make it harder to respond to any queries. Team members follow written procedures so that they can carry out tasks safely. The pharmacy generally keeps the records that are needed by law. Team members take appropriate action to protect people’s information and take the opportunity to learn from mistakes that occur.

Principle 2. Staff

The pharmacy has enough staff to effectively manage the workload. Team members complete appropriate training so that they can carry out their roles and responsibilities. And the pharmacy provides support to those on training courses to help them progress. Team members communicate effectively with each other and can raise concerns if they need to.

Principle 3. Premises

The pharmacy’s environment is suitable for the services that it provides. It is clean and tidy which helps to maintain a professional appearance. A consultation room is available for the confidential provision of pharmacy services, including a pharmacist led prescribing service.

Principle 4. Services, including medicines management

The pharmacy generally provides its services safely and effectively.  Medicines are sourced from licensed suppliers and team members complete checks to make sure they are safe for people to use. The pharmacy occasionally offers a private prescribing service to treat minor illnesses, and it carries out some checks to make sure that medicines are being prescribed safely. But a record of these checks is not always maintained, and the pharmacy does not routinely communicate with people’s regular doctor when prescribing and supplying medicines which may result in a lack of care continuity. 

Principle 5. Equipment and facilities

The pharmacy has the equipment it needs to provide its services safely. It maintains the equipment appropriately and keeps it securely. Its team members use the equipment in a way to help maintain privacy.