PDA highlights proposed changes to the GPhC’s online prescribing guidance currently under consultation

For years the PDA has expressed concerns and outlined risks associated with online prescribing. This includes concerns about questionnaire-based consultations and the need for a patient’s GP to be informed of any medication prescribed to ensure patient safety.

The PDA is now highlighting to members that there is a short time frame to comment on the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC)’s consultation around online prescribing.

The GPhC is seeking feedback from stakeholders, including registrants on proposed changes to its guidance on providing pharmacy services at a distance, including on the internet.

The GPhC is proposing changes after identifying that there are greater risks to patient safety when online questionnaires are the only mode of consultation used, and when the information provided by the patient isn’t verified by a prescriber.

The main proposed changes include:

1. Strengthening safeguards for people using online services
2. Selecting the appropriate mode of consultation
3. Superintendent pharmacists and pharmacy owners both being responsible for meeting the guidance
4. Being able to select a preferred prescription medicine during a consultation.

The consultation closes on 9 October 2024. The new proposed guidance can be found here .

Get involved

PDA members are encouraged to read the guidance and respond directly or provide comments to the PDA for consideration in the PDA’s response by emailing [email protected] by Monday 7 October 2024.

Learn more

• Urgent alert for online prescribing pharmacists working in the private sector
• PDA reiterates advice to pharmacists working in online settings
• Am I fit to be a pharmacist? The online pharmacy model and fitness to practise
• PDA cannot support DiCE best practice guidance for online prescribing of GLP-1 receptor agonists for weight management in adults
• PDA discusses online supply of GLP-1 RA weight loss products on Woman’s Hour

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