The Code of Conduct for Pharmacists

Review of the Code of Conduct Principles in the Code of Conduct (2019)

A review of the Code of Conduct for Pharmacists commenced in 2017. The current Code is in place since 2009 and the review was undertaken to ensure it continues to reflect the current environment, the evolving role of pharmacists and a changing health service. This review involved a substantial process of research and engagement with pharmacists, stakeholders and the public. In 2017, we invited a wide range of feedback on the Code to help us consider any changes that might be needed in a revised Code. Following this consultation, and engagement with relevant experts, the Code was revised and updated, and a public consultation was carried out in August 2018, and a summary of the consultation is available. The updated Code was approved by the Minister for Health earlier this year and will come into effect on 21 October 2019.

Updated Code of Conduct (2019)

The updated Code acknowledges the changes that have taken place in the delivery of healthcare in recent years, the evolving role of pharmacists and the exercise of professional judgement by pharmacists in the fulfilment of their professional responsibilities to patients and the public. The updated Code applies to all pharmacists and is more distinctly patient centred than the original Code, focussing on ensuring that all pharmacists practise in a way that maintains and improves the health, wellbeing, care and safety of patients. The Code is intended to support pharmacists working in modern Ireland and has taken into account changes in Irish healthcare legislation and our society.

The new Code will be launched on 25 September 2019 to coincide with World Pharmacist Day and all pharmacists will receive a copy of the new Code in early September, and it will be published on this website.

Information events on the updated Code of Conduct

To support pharmacists with the role out of the updated Code, we will be holding seven information events across the country in September and October. Each information event will focus on one of the seven principles contained in the Code, and will provide an opportunity to hear from, and engage with, pharmacists and guest speakers who work across a variety of areas. Pharmacists can sign up to attend the information events using this online form.  Other useful resources will also be made available on the PSI website following the events.

Dates and locations

  • 25 September 2019 - PSI House, Fenian Street, Dublin 2, D02 TD72 (Registration is now closed)- Principle 1 guest speaker: Niall Byrne, Registrar, PSI
  • 26 September 2019 - PSI House, Fenian Street, Dublin 2, D02 TD72 (Registration is now closed)- Principle 2 guest speaker: Aisling Reast, M.P.S.I, Hibernia College
  • 1 October 2019 - Carlton Dublin Airport Hotel, Cloghran, Dublin, K67P5C7 - Principle 6 guest speaker: Michelle Scott, M.P.S.I, RCSI
  • 2 October 2019 - The Ardilaun Hotel, Taylors Hill, Galway, H91 H29F - Principle 7 guest speaker: Angela Tysall, HSE Quality Improvement Team
  • 8 October 2019 - Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Ditchley House, Little Island, Cork, T45 WF53 (Registration is now closed) - Principle 4 guest speaker: Dervla Kelly, M.P.S.I, Lecturer, University of Limerick
  • 9 October 2019 - Casletroy Park Hotel, Dublin Road, Limerick, V94 Y0AN - Principle 3 guest speaker: Aoife Mellet, Legal Affairs Manager, PSI
  • 10 October 2019 - Athlone Springs Hotel, Athlone, Westmeath, N37 F9T3 - Principle 5 guest speaker: Caitriona Gowing, M.P.S.I, Hospital Pharmacist

Code of Conduct (2009)

Until the 21 October 2019 the Code of Conduct (2009) remains in place. 

This six-principle Code is a public declaration of ethical standards which govern the practice of pharmacy and which the public, patients and other healthcare professionals require and expect of pharmacists. The primary principle of the Code requires that the practice by a pharmacist of his/her profession must be directed to maintaining and improving the health, wellbeing, care and safety of the patient.

The Code applies to all registered pharmacists and is intended to provide support and guidance in their professional practice. Every pharmacist has an obligation to comply in full with the statutory Code of Conduct.  Breaches of the Code may be considered professional misconduct by a pharmacist. Every pharmacist is personally responsible under the Code of Conduct for his/her own acts or omissions, but they may also be responsible under the Code for the acts or omissions of persons operating under their direction, control or supervision.

Reflecting on the Code of Conduct, the PSI developed a Patient Charter, which is intended to reflect those standards as they relate to people availing of the professional services, advice and care provided by a community pharmacist. The Patient Charter outlines what patients can expect from their pharmacist.