Accreditation of a Dispensing / Pharmacy Assistant ... International Group Healthcare Partnership ... equivalent to the Pharmacy Services Skills level 2 NVQ ... evaluation forms or

1 General Pharmaceutical Council, Pharmacy Assistant programme accreditation report Communications International Group Healthcare Partnership (CIG), 16 March 2016

Accreditation of a Dispensing / Pharmacy Assistant programme, Communications International Group Healthcare Partnership (CIG)

Report of an accreditation event, 16 March 2016

Introduction The General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) is the statutory regulator for pharmacists and pharmacy technicians and is the accrediting body for pharmacy education in Great Britain. Accreditation was carried out in line with the GPhC’s processes and was to the GPhC’s 2010 standards for accreditation of dispensing and pharmacist assistant courses, which reflect the knowledge and understanding equivalent to the Pharmacy Services Skills level 2 NVQ (QCF).

Background A dispensing assistant course previously offered by Communications International Group Healthcare Partnership (CIG) was accredited by the GPhC on 11 August 2011, for a period of three years. This course is therefore no longer accredited. The 2011 accreditation was subject to one condition, that the photographs used in the training materials appeared to illustrate practice which would fall outside the normal Standards of Conduct, Ethics and Performance, and, as such, are poor examples to trainees. These must not be associated with a GPhC-accredited course. The accreditation team also made the following recommendation, that the reasons for the use and importance of Standard Operating Procedures be emphasised throughout the programme. Since the last accreditation event, CIG has reviewed its portfolio and plan to offer a new training course for Pharmacy Assistants who work in both the dispensary and on the counter. This programme has been designed and tailored to address the needs of employers and was presented for accreditation at an event to be held at the GPhC on 16 March 2016.


Documentation The provider submitted submission documentation to the GPhC in line with agreed timescales and a pre-event meeting took place at the GPhC headquarter at Canary Wharf, London on 19 February 2016. During the pre-event meeting the schedule of meetings and timings for the accreditation event were confirmed and the GPhC requested that a number of documents be amended ready for the event, and that a number of issues identified be re-considered by the provider in the inter-regnum between meetings, and explained to the accreditation team at the full event. In particular, the provider was asked to re-consider the naming of the courses to be provided. The following documents were submitted by the provider in advance of the accreditation event:

- Completed GPhC submission template ‘Accreditation of dispensing and pharmacy assistant programmes’. - Evidence documents:

o See Appendix 3 below The following documents were submitted during the accreditation event:

Accreditation of Prior Learning – Policy and procedural guidance

Amendments made to Counter Intelligence MCA Course

On-line assessment flow chart

The event The event was held on 16 March 2016 at General Pharmaceutical Council headquarters at Canary Wharf, London, and comprised a series of meetings with representatives of the training provider.

Accreditation team The GPhC’s accreditation team (‘the team’) comprised:

Name Designation at the time of accreditation event

Mrs Barbara Wensworth* Accreditation team leader, Freelance Consultant Pharmacist Mrs Donna Bartlett Mrs Gail Holmes

Accreditation team member (Pharmacy technician), Locum Technician Accreditation team member (Pharmacy technician), Manager, Pharmacy Programmes, Bradford College

Mrs Sylvia Hikins Accreditation team member (Lay), Chair of Urgent Care 24, Director of Liverpool International Nordic Centre


along with:

Name Designation at the time of event

Ms Jenny Clapham * Quality Assurance Officer, General Pharmaceutical Council Professor Ian G Marshall

Rapporteur, Caldarvan Research (Educational and Writing Services)

*attended pre-event meeting on 19 February 2016

Declaration of potential conflicts of interest No potential conflicts of interest were declared.


The accreditation criteria

Accreditation team’s commentary

1. The Training Programme

The team was confident that five of the seven criteria relating to the training programme will be met – see condition 1. The course will be delivered by distance learning in 23 modules across 5 sets (A-E), and was developed using the QCF framework and National Occupational Standards (NOS) as guidance on content, by a team of staff who all have an extensive working knowledge of both Level 2 and Level 3. The rationale for the course is based on feedback from the company’s clients in community pharmacy that now more than ever, there is a need for a flexible workforce who can work across both the medicines counter and the dispensary to meet the changing needs of a pharmacy business. Feedback from CIG clients had indicated that this is a model that they want to adopt as part of their own strategy for workforce development. The sets can be studied in any order but generally Set A will be studied first. Candidates on the Pharmacy Assistant course that decide to terminate their studies after completing Sets A-D, or do not complete Set E satisfactorily will be considered for accreditation of prior learning (APL) for award of the Medicines Counter Assistant plus Stock Control qualification. The team was told that this ability to revert to the MCA qualification is not advertised to candidates for the Pharmacy Assistant course but rather exists as a useful fallback position. The course is mapped to the GPhC underpinning knowledge template (see mapping in Appendix 2). However, the team noted that Unit 10 (Issuing Pharmaceutical Stock) covered issuing prescriptions rather than the issue of stock to doctors or nursing homes, or for inter-branch stock movement. It will therefore be a condition of accreditation that the provider review the course materials and module booklets for the Pharmacy Assistant programme to include content that directly covers Unit 10 – Issuing Stock. The team agreed that the existing course materials focus on issuing prescriptions and do not cover the knowledge and understanding associated with issuing stock. The transfer of the knowledge in the workplace will be demonstrated by the completion of activities which are checked by the supervising pharmacist, the completion of a workbook for Set E, with case studies and scenarios that is marked by the pharmacist with marking guidance provided, and the completion of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) at the end of each module and in the external assessment. Both the workbook and the MCQs will be assembled from a bank of questions with different versions being sent out with different batches of courses.

2. Academic Management

Structures

The team was confident that three of the four criteria relating to Academic Management Structures will be met – see condition 2 The course will be reviewed and updated on an annual basis by a pharmacist. Feedback is invited from participants, formally via evaluation forms or informally, and will be taken into account during the updating process. Formative assessment will be marked by


the supervising pharmacist and will include inter-text exercises, practical assessment with MCQs at the end all with feedback from the pharmacist. The summative assessment is via an MCQ paper at the end of each set which is externally marked by the provider’s collaborating company, Precision Data Marketing (PDM). The papers will be double-marked by hand to reduce errors and any fails are re-checked before the letter confirming success is sent out. Candidates are allowed three attempts to pass the tests, being sent a letter before the third attempt reminding them that the third attempt will the last opportunity to attempt the test. The team was told that one in ten test papers will be sampled. The final summative MCQ assessments, while conducted under tight, time-restricted conditions under the supervision of the pharmacist, will allow candidates to use their course notes and workbooks. As the pass mark for the summative assessment is 70%, the team queried if the open-book approach was consistent with safe and effective practice. The provider explained that the approach was based historically on what other providers did, and on the format and pass mark for the GPhC Registration Examination. The team was told that the time frame of the test would make it difficult for trainees to complete if relying entirely on consulting their workbook and that the provider was attempting to instil in trainees the ethos of enquiring and looking up any information that they did not know, emphasising that trainees were working under supervision at all times. The team enquired about failure rates and was told that failure of the summative MCQ assessment was uncommon. The team was concerned at this high pass rate at the first attempt, and agreed that the provider was unable to provide any hard evidence that the summative assessment was consistent with safe and effective practice. As a result, it will be a condition of accreditation that the provider must review its assessment strategy to ensure that the summative assessment of trainees is robust and that it is in line with safe and effective practice. The team considered that there was insufficient evidence to justify the robustness of the current MCQ summative assessment.

3. Resources

The team was confident that all of the eight criteria relating to Resources will be met with three of these subject to amendments. Since September 2012, the provider has enrolled 4232 trainees on the course, of whom 2590 have completed, 1167 are still progressing on course and 475 have withdrawn. The course will be administered via CIG Head Office with full support of senior executives, and delivered by the Education and Training Department who deal with course content, updating, queries and managing candidate and pharmacist dedicated phone line and emails. There were several references in the documentation to registered pharmacists and the team reminded the provider that there are no non-registered pharmacists as there is not a non-practising register. The provider agreed to amend this. Data on candidates completing, completion rates, student sector of practice and disability will be stored on a bespoke database managed by PDM from which reports will be readily available on request. Certificates for the course will be generated via the bespoke database on successful completion of all assessment papers with signed statements from the supervising pharmacist. As the course will cover only the underpinning knowledge and understanding element of the NVQ template, and not the competency component, the award certificate should be amended to contain wording to the effect that the course covers “equivalence to knowledge and understanding of the following Units…”.


Pharmacists will be provided with a guide to the course outlining their roles and responsibilities, along with a guide for locum and temporary pharmacists provided. At CIG there is a helpline available that will be manned by administration staff who will deal with general course queries. Trainees will also be able to contact CIG via email. CIG pharmacist tutors will be available to help with course content queries and both candidates and pharmacists will be made aware of contact details in their course guides. In terms of student/trainee progression, letters will be sent out at 12 weeks, 6 months and 9 months if assessments are not received, reminding trainees of the necessity to progress their studies. The team noted that a number of amendments from the pre-visit notes had not been carried forward into the amended guidance document for supervising pharmacists. The provider was reminded that these amendments needed to be effected and sent to the GPhC for approval. Candidates will be invited to give feedback at any time during the course. Evaluation forms will be sent to all candidates on completion of the course with their certificate, and all feedback will be reviewed at regular intervals and taken into account during updates.


Summary and conclusions The team agreed to recommend to the Registrar of the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) that CIG Healthcare Partnership should be accredited as a Pharmacy Assistant training course provider for a period of three years, subject to two conditions. The conditions are:

1. The provider must review the course materials and module booklets for the programme to include content that directly covers Unit 10 – Issuing Stock. The team agreed that the existing course materials focus on issuing prescriptions and do not cover the knowledge and understanding associated with issuing stock. This relates to criteria 1c and 1f of the Pharmacy Assistant programme.

2. The provider must review its assessment strategy to ensure that the summative assessment of trainees is robust and that it is in line with safe and effective practice. The team considered that there was insufficient evidence to justify the robustness of the current MCQ summative assessment. This is to meet criterion 2a of the training programme.

The provider must submit evidence of how these conditions have been met to the GPhC, for approval by the accreditation team. This must be done before the programme can be accredited and before the first intake of trainees onto the new programme. Standing conditions of accreditation:

1. The full record and report include other comments from the team and the Registrar regards the record and report in their entirety as the formal view on provision. Providers are required to take all comments into account as part of the reaccreditation process.

2. Any required amendments to be made to documents for accuracy or completeness have been identified and are detailed in the record. The provider must confirm the changes have been made but the GPhC does not require documents to be submitted for its approval.

3. Once agreed by the Registrar, the definitive version of the record and report will be sent to the provider for their records. The provider must respond to the definitive version of the record and report within three months of receipt. The summary report, along with the provider’s response, will be published on the GPhC’s website for the duration of the accreditation period. The record remains confidential to the provider and the GPhC.

4. On an annual basis, all institutions and other providers approved by the GPhC must give such information and assistance as the GPhC may reasonably require

including changes to the curriculum and/or resources.


The provider was asked to note the following:

1. The programme is not accredited until approval has been given by the Registrar and all conditions have been met satisfactorily.

2. The team’s recommendations are not binding on the Registrar, who may accept, modify or reject them.

3. The accreditation team’s feedback is confidential until it has been ratified by the Registrar of the GPhC but the provider may share it with staff and students internally.

The Pharmacy Order 2010 states: Schedule 1 The Council’s duties in respect of publications 1. (2) The Council may from time to time publish or provide in such manner as it sees fit guidance to registrants, employers and such other persons as it considers

appropriate in respect of the standards for the education, training, supervision and performance of persons who are not registrants but who provide services in connection with those provided by registrants.

Reference: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2010/231/contents/made

Following the above event a satisfactory response was received to meet the conditions of accreditation. The Registrar of the General Pharmaceutical Council agreed with the accreditation team’s recommendations and approved the course for accreditation for a period of three years, until the end of May 2019.

http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2010/231/contents/made


Appendix 1 - Accreditation Criteria 1. The training programme

a. The programme is equivalent to one or more units of the S/NVQ level 2 (QCF)

b. The unit(s) the course is designed to cover are specified.

c. The course content covers the relevant units of the ‘GPhC underpinning knowledge template’ (see mapping of the course to the programme requirements).

d. For each unit, the transfer of underpinning knowledge into the workplace is demonstrated through the use of a variety of methods

e. The programme is taught at Qualifications Credit framework level 2.

f. The programme is planned with reference to the S/NVQ (QCF) level 2 underpinning knowledge template.

g. Assessments have been developed by subject experts from the Pharmacy sector and directly relate to the relevant units of the S/NVQ (QCF) level 2 underpinning knowledge template.

2. Academic and Management Structures a. Assessment process and strategies assure appropriate standards in assessment and that students are able to demonstrate fitness for purpose.

b. In the processes of programme review and development, the training provider has taken account of advances in pharmacy practice, for instance recent POM to P reclassifications, and developments potentially impacting on pharmacy.

c. Course regulations include procedures for appeals against assessment decisions

d. Course regulations include procedures for dealing with suspected plagiarism and/or malpractice

3. Resources a. Buildings, human, equipment, and other resources available to the training provider are sufficient for the effective delivery of the course to the numbers of

students on the course, and overall.

b. Record keeping systems are able to generate data on candidates completing, completion rates, student sector of practice and disability.

c. Systems are in place for issuing certificates of completion to successful students in the GPhC’s approved format

d. There is an appropriate mix of tutors, mentors and assessors.

e. The student has access to a personal tutor or tutors for academic guidance and pastoral care.

f. The student is instructed in the use of information resources.

g. There are adequate student feedback mechanisms in place.

h. The training provider seeks to provide the student with a positive learning experience.


Appendix 2 - Mapping to programme requirements – Pharmacy Assistants course

Unit 1 - Assist with the provision of a pharmacy service to meet individual needs

To demonstrate knowledge and understanding in this NOS , assistants should be able to apply:

Name of document and unit/module number Page

1.1 A working knowledge of SOPs and the importance of adhering to them at all times Set A Module 1 Set A Module 3

6-7 4-5

1.2 A working knowledge of the importance of maintaining individual satisfaction, loyalty and confidence to the organisation and how you contribute towards it

Set A Module 2 4

1.3 A working knowledge of the organisation’s policy on individual service and individual relationships and how this applies to your role

Set A Module 2 Throughout

1.4 A working knowledge of the organisations procedure for handling complaints Set A Module 2 10-12

1.5 A working knowledge of the importance of working within the limits of your competence and authority

Set A Module1 Set A Module 3

11 13

1.6 A working knowledge of the importance of establishing the requirements of individuals clearly and accurately

Set A Module 2 2-9

1.7 A working knowledge of the importance of verbal and non verbal communication when communicating with individuals

Set A Module 2 2-4

1.8 A working knowledge of how to give clear and accurate information and check the individual’s understanding

Set A Module 2 2-9

1.9 A working knowledge of relevant products and services or advice for which information and/or advice is required

Set A Module 2 2-4

1.10 A working knowledge of where to get assistance if you can’t provide information and advice yourself

Set A Module 2 All modules - when to refer to pharmacist

Throughout

1.11 A working knowledge of what source of information to use, what information can be given to the individual

Set A Module 2 9-10

1.12 A working knowledge of the source(s) of information that can be accessed and the Set A Module 1 11-13


information that can be given to individuals by the pharmacist

1.13 A working knowledge of how to manage conflict and/or individuals who are angry Set A Module 2 Set E Module 1

4-5, 10-12 6-7

1.14 A working knowledge of how to assess complaints and what action to take Set A Module 2 10-12

1.15 A working knowledge of when you should refer complaints to a higher authority Set A Module 2 12

Unit 2 - Make sure your own actions reduce risks to health and safety

To demonstrate knowledge and understanding in this NOS , assistants should be able to apply knowledge of:


2.1 What ‘hazards’ and ‘risks’ are Set E Module 1 12

2.2 Their responsibilities and legal duties for health and safety in the workplace Set E Module 1 11-12

2.3 Their responsibilities for health and safety as required by the law covering their job role

Set E Module 1 11-17

2.4 The hazards which exist in their workplace and the safe working practices which they must follow


2.5 The particular health and safety hazards which may be present in their own job and the precautions they must take


2.6 The importance of remaining alert to the presence of hazards in the whole workplace


2.7 The importance of dealing with, or promptly reporting risks Set E Module 1 14-16

2.8 The responsibilities of health and safety in their job description Set E Module 1 12

2.9 The safe working practices for their own job role Set E Module 1 Throughout

2.10 The responsible people they should report health and safety matters to Set E Module 1 14-15

2.11 Where and when to get additional health and safety assistance Set E Module 1 Throughout

2.12 Their scope and responsibility for controlling risks Set E Module 1 12

2.13 Workplace instructions for managing risks which they are unable to deal with Set E Module 1 14-16

2.14 Suppliers’ and manufacturers’ instructions for the safe use of equipment, materials and products which they must follow


2.15 The importance of personal presentation in maintaining health and safety in their workplace

Set E Module 1 12

2.16 The importance of personal behaviour in maintaining the health and safety of Set E Module 1 12


themselves and others

2.17 The risks to the environment which may be present in their workplace and/or in their own job


Unit 3 - Contribute to the effectiveness of teams



3.1. A working knowledge of legal and organisational requirements on equality, diversity, discrimination and rights when working in teams

Set E Module 1 6-7

3.2. A working knowledge of codes of practice and conduct, and standards and guidance relevant to their own roles, responsibilities, accountability and duties of others when working in teams to support individuals

Set A Module 2 Set E Module 1

9-10 2-5

3.3. A working knowledge of current local, UK and European legislation, and organisational requirements, procedures and practices for:

a) Accessing records b) Recording, reporting, confidentiality and sharing information, including data

protection c) Team working


8-10 4-6

3.4. A working knowledge of how to access up-to-date copies of the organisation’s workplace policies, procedures and systems, and practice and service standards related to team working

Set A Module 1 Set A Module 3 Set E Module 1

6-7 4-5 6,9,12,16

3.5. A working knowledge of the principles that underpin effective team working Set E Module 1 2-5

3.6. A working knowledge of individuals’ styles of interaction and how these can affect team working

Set E Module 1 7-9

3.7. A working knowledge of barriers to developing relationships within the team and how these can be overcome

Set E Module 1 7-8

3.8. A working knowledge of problems which may be encountered when relating to and interacting with other team members and how these can be best handled

Set E Module 1 6-7

3.9. A working knowledge of their own strengths and weaknesses as an individual worker and as a team member

Set E Module 1 10

3.10. A working knowledge of development and learning opportunities available to support them in team working and activities

Set E Module 1 10


Unit 4 - Assist in the sale of medicines and products



4.1. A working knowledge of the pharmacy protocol on the sale of medicines and SOPs including: a) What is listed in them b) How to use them c) Why it is important that SOPs should be followed at all times

Set A - Module 1 Introduction Set A – Module 3 Dealing with prescriptions

6-8 4, 23

4.2. A factual knowledge of the legal responsibility and authority of the pharmacist and others in the organisation

Set A: Module 1 – Introduction Module 3 – Dealing with prescriptions

6-10 2-3 and throughout

4.3. A working knowledge of legal and ethical requirements for confidentiality Set A: Module 2 – Dealing with customers Module 3 – Dealing with prescriptions

8-10 16

4.4. A working knowledge of the main actions and side effects of the active ingredients within commonly used non-prescription medicines

Sets B, C and D Throughout

4.5. A working knowledge of the differences between: a) General Sales List (GSL) medicines b) Pharmacy (P) c) Prescription Only Medicines (POM) items

Set A: Module 1 - Introduction 8-11

4.6. A working knowledge of the use of questioning techniques such as 2WHAM Set A: Module 1 – Introduction Sets B, C and D

3-6 Throughout

4.7. A working knowledge of the needs of different types of individuals Set A: Module 2 – Dealing with customers Module 3 – Dealing with prescriptions

4-7 6, 16

4.8. A working knowledge of the sources of information to access Set A: Module 1 - Introduction 11-13

4.9. A working knowledge of the information that is suitable to give individuals Set A: Module 1 - Introduction Sets B, C & D

6 Throughout

4.10. A working knowledge of the type of information/advice that needs to be referred to a pharmacist or a pharmacy technician

Set A: Module 1 – Introduction Set A: Module 2 – Dealing with customers Set A: Module 3 – Dealing with prescriptions ‘When to refer to the pharmacist sections’ in Sets B,

4-8 9 12-13 Throughout


C & D

Unit 5 - Receive prescriptions from individuals



5.1 A working knowledge of the importance of working within the limits of their own role and recognising when to refer to an appropriate person

Set A: Module 3 – Dealing with prescriptions 4-5, 8, 11-15, 24

5.2 A working knowledge of Standard Operating Procedures regarding the receiving of prescriptions and the importance of adhering to them at all times

Set A: Module 3 – Dealing with prescriptions 4-5

5.3 A working knowledge of current legislation relating to prescription charges and exemptions and differences in practice across the UK

Set A: Module 3 – Dealing with prescriptions 8-11, 24

5.4 A working knowledge of regulations and procedures relating to prescriptions for clinical trials


5.5 A working knowledge of the relevant national and local guidelines, policies and procedures that are available and how and when they should be accessed


5.6 A working knowledge of the different types of prescribers Set A: Module 3 – Dealing with prescriptions 5, 23

5.7 A working knowledge of the different types of prescriptions and when they are used


5.8 A working knowledge of the different types of prescriptions and when they are used


5.9 A working knowledge of exemptions and how individuals can claim refunds, including the use of official forms and prepayment certificates


5.10 A working knowledge of how to deal with individuals with special needs Set A: Module 2 – Dealing with customers Set A: Module 3 – Dealing with prescriptions

6 6-7


5.11 A working knowledge of the transactional and administration procedures as required by governmental regulations and those that apply to the workplace


5.12 A working knowledge of the importance of maintaining dispensary records Set A: Module 3 – Dealing with prescriptions 11-12

Unit 6 - Assemble prescribed items



6.1. A working knowledge of the importance of working within the limits of their own role and recognising when to refer to an appropriate person

Set E Module 2 12, 15,17-18

6.2. A working knowledge of current ethical and legal requirements that govern the dispensing and issuing of a prescription

Set E Module 2-4 Throughout

6.3. A working knowledge of SOPs and the importance of adhering to them at all times


6.4. A working knowledge of relevant national and local guidelines, policies and procedures that are available including when they should be used and how to use them


6.5. A working knowledge of the importance of personal hygiene and correct use of protective clothing

Set E Module 3 5

6.6. A working knowledge of basic hygiene and the importance of maintaining a clean working environment and equipment

Set E Module 3 2,5

6.7. A factual knowledge of the principles underlying the dispensing of sterile products

Set E Module 3 14

6.8. A factual knowledge of factors which cause deterioration of stock including:

Environmental conditions

Storage conditions

Microbial contamination


12-13 18

6.9. A factual knowledge of sources of contamination and appropriate corrective action including:

Microbial

Cross-chemical

Set A Module 4 12-14


Physical, environmental and storage conditions

6.10. A factual knowledge of prescribing conventions and abbreviations Set E Module 2 14

6.11. A factual knowledge of the common proprietary and generic names Set E Module 2 Set A Module 4

13,18 8

6.12. A working knowledge of dosage forms and their properties and use Set A Module 4 Set E Module 2

6 13

6.13. A working knowledge of different strengths, doses and quantities of medicines, and why they are used and how to calculate them

Set E Module 2 Set E Module 3

13-21 2-4

7. Order pharmaceutical stock

To demonstrate knowledge and understanding in this NOS , assistants should be able to apply :


Legislation, policy and good practice

7.1 A working knowledge of working within the limits of their own authority and when to refer to an appropriate person

Set a Module 4 – Handling stock 5,8 ,11

7.2 A factual awareness of current legislation that applies to the ordering of pharmaceutical stock

Set a Module 4 – Handling stock 2

7.3 A working knowledge of their responsibilities under current legislation when ordering pharmaceutical stock

Set a Module 4 – Handling stock Throughout

7.4 A working knowledge of the importance of following ordering SOPs Set a Module 4 – Handling stock 3

7.5 A working knowledge of the health and safety requirements related to ordering of pharmaceutical stock


7.6 A working knowledge of local or regional pharmaceutical contracts Set a Module 4 – Handling stock 4

Specific health related knowledge and skills

7.7 A working knowledge of the different formulation of drugs and why it is important to order sufficient quantities of the correct formulation and strength

Set a Module 4 – Handling stock 6-7

7.8 A working knowledge of the difference between branded and generic drugs Set a Module 4 – Handling stock 8

7.9 A working knowledge of the importance of referring to current drug alerts and Set a Module 4 – Handling stock 20


company recalls when ordering pharmaceutical stock

7.10 A working knowledge of the sources and suppliers of stock Set a Module 4 – Handling stock 3-5

7.11 A working knowledge of the procedures for responding to urgent requests. Set a Module 4 – Handling stock 5,8

7.12 A working knowledge of the importance of taking account of seasonal variations when ordering pharmaceutical stock


7.13 A working knowledge of the action to be taken if stock is unavailable Set a Module 4 – Handling stock 5

Records and documentation

7.14 A working knowledge of the input and retrieval of stock data Set a Module 4 – Handling stock 17-18

7.15 A working knowledge of the parameters set for the computer ordering system Set a Module 4 – Handling stock 17-18

7.16 A working knowledge of the importance of maintaining correct, accurate documentation, including backup systems to IT failure where appropriate.


Unit 8 - Receive pharmaceutical stock





8.2 A factual knowledge of current legislation and their responsibilities that apply to the receipt of pharmaceutical stock


8.3 A working knowledge of the importance of following SOPs related to receiving pharmaceutical stock


8.4 A working knowledge of the COSHH and health and safety requirements related to receipt of pharmaceutical stock

Set a Module 4 – Handling stock 10,14,15,19

8.5 A working knowledge of local or regional pharmaceutical contracts Set a Module 4 – Handling stock 4

8.6 A working knowledge of the different formulation of drugs and why it is important Set a Module 4 – Handling stock 6-7


to stock sufficient quantities of the correct formulation and strength


8.8 A working knowledge of the importance of referring to current drug alerts and company recalls when receiving pharmaceutical stock


8.9 A working knowledge of the sources and suppliers of stock Set a Module 4 – Handling stock 3-5

8.10 A working knowledge of the procedures that apply to receiving pharmaceutical stock, including:

a) only receiving stock identified on the original order b) expiry dates and batch numbers c) identifying damaged, contaminated or deteriorated stock



8.12 A working knowledge of the action to be taken if received stock:

a) not on original order b) is not the complete order c) beyond expiry date d) has inconsistent batch number or batch number for which drug alerts/recalls

have been issued e) damaged or contaminated

Set a Module 4 – Handling stock 8-11 20

8.13 A working knowledge of promptly informing the appropriate person of the availability of the stock where the goods received are for a special or outstanding order


8.14 A working knowledge of the storage requirements of different types of products and why they are important


8.15 A working knowledge of the importance placing received stock in a manner that allows stock rotation


8.16 A working knowledge of the importance placing received stock in a safe storage environment




8.18 A working knowledge of the parameters set for the computer ordering system where appropriate


8.19 A working knowledge of the importance of maintaining correct, accurate documentation, including back up systems to IT failure where appropriate


Unit 9 - Maintain pharmaceutical stock


Name of document and unit/module Page



9.2 A working knowledge of your responsibilities and current legislation that applies to maintaining pharmaceutical stock

Set a Module 4 – Handling stock 2,17-20

9.3 A working knowledge of the importance of following SOPs related to maintaining pharmaceutical stock

Set a Module 4 – Handling stock 3,17

9.4 A working knowledge of the health and safety requirements related to:

a) maintaining pharmaceutical stock b) disposing of outdated, damaged or decontaminated stock


9.5 A working knowledge of the different formulation of drugs and why it is important to stock sufficient quantities of the correct formulation and strength



9.7 A working knowledge of the of the action to take immediately when drug alerts and company recalls are received


9.8 A working knowledge of the importance of maintaining a safe storage environment


9.9 A working knowledge of the storage requirements of different types of products and why they are important



9.10 A working knowledge of the importance of storing stock into the correct:

a) storage area b) location


9.11 A working knowledge of the importance of taking any special storage requirements into consideration


9.12 A working knowledge of the importance of good stock management, including: a) the rotation of stock b) checking expiry dates of stock c) the quantity of stock - taking account of seasonal variations d) identifying damaged, contaminated or deteriorated stock

Set a Module 4 – Handling stock 9-10,17


9.14 A working knowledge of the action to be taken if stock: a) is beyond expiry date b) is damaged or contaminated c) has inconsistent batch number or batch number for which drug alerts/recalls

have been issued



9.16 A working knowledge of the parameters set for the computer ordering system Set a Module 4 – Handling stock 17-18

9.17 A working knowledge of the importance of maintaining correct, accurate documentation, including back up systems to IT failure where appropriate.


Unit 10 - Issue pharmaceutical Stock



10.1 A working knowledge of working within the limits of your their authority and when to refer to an appropriate person

Set E Module 4 7,8 Throughout

10.2 A factual knowledge of current legislation that applies to issuing pharmaceutical stock

Set E Module 4 4,8


10.3 A working knowledge of your responsibilities under current legislation when issuing pharmaceutical stock

Set E Module 4 4-8

10.4 A working knowledge of the importance of following SOPs related to issuing pharmaceutical stock

Set E Module 4 4

10.5 A working knowledge of the health and safety requirements related to issuing pharmaceutical stock

Set E Module 4 2-3

10.6 A working knowledge of the different formulation of drugs and why it is important to issue sufficient quantities of the correct formulation and strength

Set E Module 4 5-7

10.7 A working knowledge of the difference between branded and generic drugs Set A Module 4 8

10.8 A working knowledge of the action to be taken if stock is not fit for purpose Set A Module 4 17-19

10.9 A working knowledge of the importance of checking stock for issue against current drug alerts/recalls

Set A Module 4 20

10.10 A working knowledge of the procedures for responding to urgent requests Set A Module 4 8

10.11 A working knowledge of which products need special packaging and transportation and why it is important to adhere to these special requirements.

Set E Module 4 3

10.12 A working knowledge of the importance of labelling containers correctly Set E Module 4 2

10.13 A working knowledge of issuing stock to the correct destination using the correct delivery method

Set E Module 4 3

10.14 A working knowledge of the input and retrieval of stock data Set E Module 4 18-19

10.15 A working knowledge of the importance of maintaining correct, accurate documentation, including back up systems to IT failure where appropriate

Set A Module 4 17

Unit 15 - Assist in the issuing of prescribed items



15.1 A working knowledge of the limits of their own role and when to refer to an Set A: Module 3 – Dealing with prescriptions 4-5


appropriate person 12-16

15.2 A working knowledge of principles for issuing dispensed medicines and products and the local Standard Operating Procedures that relate to this


15.3 A working knowledge of the current ethical and legal requirements that govern the issuing of a prescription


15.4 A working knowledge of how to deal with individuals with special needs Set A: Module 2 – Dealing with customers Set A: Module 3 – Dealing with prescriptions

6-7 16

15.5 A working knowledge of the importance of confirming the individual’s identity before issuing dispensed items

Set A: Module 3 – Dealing with prescriptions 12

15.6 A working knowledge of the importance of providing information on: a) the storage and maintenance of prescribed items b) possible side effects

Set A: Module 3 – Dealing with prescriptions 14-15 15

15.7 A factual knowledge of the importance of maintaining dispensary records including the use of the dispensary computer

Set A: Module 3 – Dealing with prescriptions 11

15.8 A factual knowledge of how medicines are administered Set A: Module 3 – Dealing with prescriptions Set A Module 4 Set C: Module 2 - Eye Module 3 - Ear

13 6-7 8-9 4

15.9 A working knowledge of the importance of selecting the correct equipment for use


15.10 A working knowledge of the properties of different types of container types and when to use each


Unit 16 - Undertake an in-process accuracy check of assembled prescribed items prior to the final accuracy check




16.1 An in-depth understanding of the limits of their own role and recognising when to refer to an appropriate person

Set E Module 2 Throughout

16.2 An in-depth understanding of Standard Operating Procedures and the importance of adhering to them at all times

Set E Module 2 Set E Module 3 Throughout course

Throughout 2,22

16.3 A working knowledge of current ethical and legal and professional requirements that govern the dispensing of a prescription

Set E Module 2 Set E Module 3

Throughout Throughout

16.4 A working knowledge of the different types of check on a prescription Set E Module 3 8-9

16.5 A working knowledge of different types of prescribers Set E Module 3 15

16.6 A working knowledge of the types of medicines supply Set E Module 2 Set E Module 3 Throughout course

Throughout Throughout

16.7 A working knowledge of how to identify near misses and dispensing errors Set E Module 3 10-11

16.8 A basic awareness of the causes and consequences of near misses and dispensing errors


16.9 A basic awareness of error recording Set E Module 3 10

16.10 A working knowledge of the details required on a prescription and why these are necessary


16.11 A working knowledge of the prescribing conventions and abbreviations Set E Module 2 14-15

16.12 A working knowledge of the common proprietary and generic names Set E Module 2 Set E Module 2

13 18

16.13 A factual knowledge of how medicines are administered Set A Module 4 Set E Module 4

6-7 3-7

16.14 A working knowledge of different strengths, doses and quantities of medicines Set E Module 2 13-16

16.15 A working knowledge of different relevant national and local guidelines, policies, procedures that are available including:

Set E Module 4

9-12


a) when they should be used

b) how to use them

16.16 A working knowledge of when and why Patient Medication Records (PMRs) are used


16.17 A working knowledge of the importance of maintaining dispensary records. Set E Module 2 Set E Module 3

10-11 13

Appendix 3 – Evidence Documents Submitted Assessments

Sets A, B, C, D MCQs Set E sample MCQs Set E Workbook – Guidance Marking Set E

Course Guides

Assistant Guide Change of Pharmacist Form Learning Contract Locum Guide Pharmacist Guide Registration Form

Modules Set A

Module 1 – Introduction Module 2 – Customers Module 3 – Prescriptions Module 4- - Handling Stock


Set B Module 1 – Pain relief Module 2 – Coughs and Colds Module 3 – Mouthcare Module 4 – Digestive Health Set C Module 1 – Hayfever Module 2 – Eye Conditions Module 3 – Ear Conditions Module 4 – Footcare Module 5 – Skincare Module 6 – Scalp Conditions Set D Module 1 – Women’s Health Module 2 – Sexual Health Module 3 – Stop Smoking Module 4 – VMS Module 5 – First Aid Travel Set E Module 1 Team Work and Health and Safety Module 2 – Dispensing Prescriptions – Part 1 Module 3 – Dispensing prescriptions – Part 2 Module 4 – Issuing Prescriptions and End of Month

Appendices Appendix 1 – Course Regulations 2016 Appendix 2 – SOPs, MC and DA Course 2016 Appendix 3 – CVs 2016 Appendix 4 – Guided Learning Hours Bank of Questions MCQ allocation Question leaflets, Sets 1A, 1B, 1C Question leaflets, Sets 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D


Question leaflets, Sets 3A, 3B, 3C, 3D Set E sample MCQs (undesigned) Set E workbook – Guidance marking Set E workbook (undesigned) Course Certificate for Pharmacy Assistant Course Course Evaluation Evaluation from Pharmacy Assistant Course Evaluation Forms – collated feedback Units 8.4 and 10 re-mapping and updated modules Set A, Module 4 – Handling Stock Set E, Module 4 – Issuing Prescriptions Units 8.4 and 10 re-mapping Amends to pharmacist guide and Locum guide – all courses Updated regulations and SOPs Pharmacy assistant Course (combination course) Appendix 1 – Combi course regulations Appendix 2 – SOPs, combi course