We carry out routine inspections of registered pharmacies. These inspections are carried out to assess compliance with medicines and pharmacy legislation, and PSI guidelines.
Routine inspections are not notified to the pharmacy in advance, but the inspector makes it clear that patient safety is everyone's priority during the visit. This type of inspection takes approximately two hours. The superintendent or supervising pharmacist is not required to be present during the inspection, and an inspection will still take place in cases where a locum or another pharmacist is on duty. Communication about the inspection with the superintendent or supervising pharmacist is an internal matter for the pharmacy staff on the day, and the inspection report is sent to the superintendent pharmacist after the inspection.
As part of the PSI's evolving approach to inspection, PSI inspectors will also check that a pharmacy is using the
Pharmacy Assessment System on a continued basis. They will review the pharmacy's Action Plan booklet, which should be completed in each cycle of the Assessment System to identify improvements to be addressed in the pharmacy. It is important to ensure that this is kept in the pharmacy and approved and signed by the relevant individuals.
What happens after the inspection?
Further information on the inspection report and how the PSI deals with matters that arise during an inspection.