PDA calls for ‘broader debate’ on P med self-selection

A ‘broader debate’ is needed on the issue of self-selection of Pharmacy (P) medicines within the pharmacist profession, the Pharmacists’ Defence Association (PDA) has insisted.

And it has launched a survey of its members to hear their views on the topic.

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Paul Bennett, RPS chief executive, told The Pharmacist today that the RPS welcomed the wider interest ‘in this important topic of professional practice’.

‘This is why we are calling for evidence to help have an informed discussion about our future policy in this area,’ he said.

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But the PDA suggested in its statement published yesterday that for the RPS ‘to even re-consider’ its stance on the issue was ‘premature and disingenuous’.

It said that when the cross-sector Supervision Practice Group had met to discuss how elements of medicines preparation, assembly, sale and supply could be delegated, it concluded that on P medicines specifically, ‘further work would need to be undertaken in consultation with the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Authority (MHRA)’.

The PDA said that 'despite the unexpected nature' of the RPS's call for evidence, it was 'ready and insists that a broader debate within the profession must take place if substantial proposals on changes to practice are being considered'.

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Its survey of PDA members is open until 2 August and will help inform the PDA’s views. 'All pharmacists are encouraged to have their say in this crucial debate,' the PDA said.