RCPharm guide for chief pharmacists gets update after almost a decade
The Royal College of Pharmacy (RCPharm) has updated its guide for chief pharmacists, directors of pharmacy and senior pharmacy leaders.
It said today that the new Guide for Chief Pharmacists or Equivalent is a "practical reference and signposting resource that reflects the significant changes in healthcare policy, pharmacy legislation and service delivery since it was originally developed in 2017".
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The RCPharm said the refresh follows the publication of the General Pharmaceutical Council's (GPhC) Standards for Chief Pharmacists in 2025, which ensured that each board's chief pharmacist is supporting in meeting the "professional and governance expectations set out".
It added that its updated guide, designed for use in England, Scotland and Wales, aims to "support chief pharmacists and directors of pharmacy in meeting the standards as part of their roles".
The resource covers topics such as artificial intelligence, cyber security, genomics and staff wellbeing.
Read more: GPhC publishes new standards for pharmacy technicians
The body said the guide also provides "greater information on specialist areas of pharmacy, including mental health and the independent sector".
RCPharm head of professional standards Emily Kennedy noted that "pharmacy leaders are now navigating increasingly complex professional, governance and service demands".
"This updated guide brings together practical, up-to-date information and resources to help them meet those demands and support safe, effective pharmacy services," she said.
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It comes after the college last week launched its Enhanced Pharmacist Curriculum and Credentialing Pathway, creating a "nationally recognised professional standard for pharmacists developing their practice after registration as prescribers".
And it follows the GPhC raising the minimum level of study for pharmacy technicians from Level 3 to Level 4 last month.
