The Pharmaceutical Society NI recently launched its new Code of Conduct, Ethics and Performance for Pharmacists, setting out the professional standards expected of all pharmacists practising in Northern Ireland.
The updated Code reflects the evolving scope of pharmacy practice and places a strong emphasis on person-centred, ethical and inclusive care. It provides clear guidance to pharmacists, supports safe and effective practice across all settings, and reassures the public that all registered pharmacists are held to these high professional standards.
The Code has been developed following extensive engagement with pharmacists, patients, professional bodies and wider stakeholders, whose contributions have been invaluable in shaping a Code that is relevant, accessible and supportive of modern pharmacy practice.
Key features of the new Code include: fClear articulation of professional standards for pharmacists at all stages of their career.
- Guidance designed to be accessible to both professionals and the public.
- Emphasis on safe, ethical, and per- son-centred care.
Ann McCorry, Head of Pharmacy and Medicines Management at the Southern Health and Social Care Trust, and Expert Advisory Panel member, said: “The update to the Code of Conduct, Ethics and Performance for Pharmacists is welcomed across all pharmacy settings. It ensures that every clinical decision made by pharmacists is guided by integrity and professionalism, with a commitment to safe and effective patient care.”
Fellow Expert Advisory Panel member Helen Hirst, Senior Lead for Experiential Learning Community Pharmacy at the Northern Ireland Centre for Pharmacy Learning and Development, said: “As a member of the Code Review Advisory Group and as an experienced pharmacist, I valued the opportunity to contribute to shaping a Code that supports all pharmacists in applying their professional judgement in delivering safe, ethical and person-centred care across all settings in Northern Ireland.”
