What Is a GPhC Inspection?
A GPhC inspection is a formal process used to check whether a pharmacy is meeting the standards required to operate safely and legally. The aim is to protect patients and the public by making sure pharmacy services are delivered to a high standard.
Inspections assess how well a pharmacy is performing across key areas such as governance, staffing, the premises, service delivery, and the use of equipment. By observing day-to-day operations, inspectors can build an accurate picture of how the pharmacy functions and whether it meets the expected level of care.
Who Regulates Pharmacies in the UK?
In Great Britain, community pharmacies are regulated by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC). In Northern Ireland, the equivalent regulator is the Pharmaceutical Society of Northern Ireland (PSNI).
These organisations are responsible for ensuring pharmacies operate safely and in line with national healthcare standards.
What Principles Must a Pharmacy Follow?
To be registered with the GPhC, a pharmacy must meet the following five principles:
- The governance arrangements safeguard the health, safety and wellbeing of patients and the public.
- Staff are empowered and competent to safeguard the health, safety and wellbeing of patients and the public.
- The environment and condition of the premises from which pharmacy services are provided safeguard the health, safety and wellbeing of patients and the public.
- The way in which pharmacy services are delivered safeguards the health, safety and wellbeing of patients and the public.
- The equipment and facilities used in the provision of pharmacy services safeguard the health, safety and wellbeing of patients and the public.
How Are These Standards Enforced?
GPhC inspections are designed to ensure that pharmacies meet these principles consistently. The frequency of inspections is determined by a risk-based approach, meaning the time between visits can vary significantly depending on identified risks or local intelligence.
Inspections are unannounced, meaning pharmacies will not receive advance notice. This approach allows inspectors to observe how a pharmacy operates under normal day-to-day conditions.
Inspectors gather evidence through a range of activities, including:
- Reviewing written documentation and records.
- Observing interactions between staff and patients.
- Asking staff questions or presenting scenarios.
- Testing systems, processes, and procedures.
How Are the Findings Reported?
Once the inspection is complete, the pharmacy will receive an outcome of either:
- Standards met
- Standards not all met
Each of the five principles will also receive an individual assessment. These can be:
- Excellent practice
- Good practice
- Standards met
- Standards not all met
What Happens If Standards Are Not Met?
If the inspection finds that standards are not met, the pharmacy must follow an Improvement Action Plan provided by the GPhC. A follow-up inspection is typically scheduled six months later.
If issues remain unresolved, or if there is a serious risk to patient safety, the GPhC may place legal conditions on the pharmacy’s registration. This can include limiting the types of services offered or suspending operations until issues are resolved.Pharmacy owners can read more in the GPhC’s Registered Pharmacies Enforcement Policy.
Final Thoughts
GPhC inspections are a core part of pharmacy regulation in the UK. They help ensure that patients receive safe, effective, and high-quality care. By understanding what to expect and maintaining good practices day to day, pharmacies can approach inspections with confidence and meet the standards expected of them.
