GPhC may use temporary registration powers if emergency declared

In an email to registrant today the GPhC has said that they are considering using a power that they have at their disposal to temporarily register pharmacists and/or pharmacy technicians back on to the GPhC register.

According to their policy the GPhC may only use this power if a state of emergency is declared by the Government.

They have said that they will write to pharmacists and pharmacy technicians that have come off the register in the last three years towards the end of this week.

Chief Executive of the GPhC Duncan Rudkin commented:

“We have powers to register on a temporary basis fit, proper and suitably experienced people to act as pharmacists and pharmacy technicians if an emergency is declared by the Secretary of State.

“Our policy sets out that in the first instance, if an emergency was declared, we would register former pharmacy professionals who have voluntarily removed themselves, or were removed for non-renewal, from the GPhC register in the last three years.

“We are currently preparing in case we need to use these powers and are working closely with governments, the NHS and other regulators.

“We will be contacting those who may be added to the temporary register later this week, to let them know what it may mean for them. We will also share information with employers about what they would need to do if they were planning to employ someone on the temporary register and signpost to information from the NHS and other organisations.

“We are continuing to actively monitor the situation and to consider if we need to make any other changes to our regulatory approach or requirements during this time, to help support the efforts in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

“We will continue to keep you updated on all relevant developments so please look out for emails from us. Thank you again for your significant contribution and your professionalism during this challenging time.”

This news comes in light of the COVID-19 outbreak and also after the publication of a joint statement by regulators last week. The GPhC has also halted inspections of community pharmacies.