The Pharmaceutical Journal
Vol 277 No 7426 S1-S4 (insert)
11 November 2006

Consultation on the revised Code of Ethics for Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians

The Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain is conducting a fundamental review of the existing codes of ethics for pharmacists and pharmacy technicians. These codes set out the professional duties and responsibilities of registered pharmacy professionals and underpin all other guidance we issue.

Having already consulted on the benefits and limitations of the current codes and on the proposed structure of the revised Code of Ethics, we are now seeking views on the detailed content and wording of the revised code.

The revised Code of Ethics will apply to both pharmacists and pharmacy technicians. It is based on seven principles that will inform the conduct, performance and practice of all registered pharmacy professionals. Each principle is supported by a series of statements to explain the types of actions and behaviours that will be expected of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians when applying these principles in practice.

The revised Code does not contain detailed standards or guidance. Where more detailed guidance is required for a specific area of practice or professional activity, this will be provided in separate supporting guidance documents. We are currently developing guidance for pharmacy owners, superintendent pharmacists and other pharmacists and pharmacy technicians with management responsibilities. Additional guidance on the sale and supply of medicines, patient consent and confidentiality is also planned. There will be an opportunity to comment on these supporting guidance documents in due course.

We would appreciate your views on the content and wording of the revised Code of Ethics for Pharmacists and Pharmacy Technicians. Please let us have your response by 26 January 2007.