The Pharmaceutical Journal Vol 267 No 7155 p15-16
July 7, 2001

  Pharmacy technicians
  Education
  Amfebutamone
  Self-checking
  SGM
  Separate registers
  Primary care pharmacy

Primary care pharmacy

Pharmacists should be treated as equals

From “Concerned Pharmacist”

Having had my contract to provide prescribing support to a general practice terminated, I am writing to advise readers of the pitfalls and problems involved.

After five afternoon sessions at a GP surgery, during which I documented possible PACT data savings of about £10,000 per annum and highlighted overspending on a particular category of expensive drugs being prescribed outside current guidelines, my contract with the health authority was terminated a day before my next scheduled surgery visit. Unfortunately, I had signed a confidentiality agreement.

I sought advice from the legal department at the Royal Pharmaceutical Society and was advised to contact the Citizens Advice Bureau. I did this and obtained free legal advice from two firms of solicitors. The health authority then eventually paid me for the six sessions I had been prevented from working.

I consider that the status of the pharmacist is in question here. I worked conscientiously and could substantiate my findings. Pharmacists should be treated as equal members of the primary care team.

Concerned Pharmacist
(297/21)

Back to Top

Previous Topic (Separate registers)
Send your letter to The Editor