Professionals

Code of Ethics and Standards Guidance

CODE OF ETHICS FOR PHARMACISTS IN NORTHERN IRELAND

As a professional requirement of registration, all pharmacists in Northern Ireland are expected to abide by the the Pharmaceutical Society of Northern Ireland's Code of Ethics.

The Code of Ethics sets the standard of professional conduct for all pharmacists and is regarded as governing the conduct of all pharmacists both within and outside the practice of pharmacy.

Breach of the Code of Ethics could form the basis of a complaint of misconduct and an appearance before the Statutory Committee of the Pharmaceutical Society of Northern Ireland. The Statutory Committee can determine to remove registration of a pharmacist.

The Code details eight mandatory principles and obligations that explain the required standards of professional behaviour. These are:

Make the safety and welfare of your patients your prime concern
Respect and protect confidential information
Show respect for others
Exercise professional judgement in the interests of patients and the public
Encourage patients (and/or their carers as appropriate) to participate in decisions about their care
Maintain and develop professional knowledge and competence
Act with honesty and integrity
Provide a high standard of practice and care at all times

PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS AND GUIDANCE DOCUMENTS

Supporting professional standards and guidance documents have been developed to expand upon the principles of the Code of Ethics for specific areas of practice or professional activities. These are: