NPA delivers sessions on new GPhC inspection regime

The National Pharmacy Association (NPA) is providing its members with training opportunities to help them prepare for the new premises inspection and rating model being introduced by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC).

Practical training sessions have already been held in Glasgow and Middlesbrough, which were attended by more than 100 NPA members, while another event will be held soon in Wales, followed by further dates throughout the country in 2014.

They cover how the new model of inspection works and the support that is available through the NPA to help pharmacies deliver and demonstrate quality care.

Meanwhile, the association has stated that it will be regularly meeting with GPhC officials, meaning any concerns about the new arrangements raised by attendees can be brought directly to the regulator's attention.

Leyla Hannbeck, head of pharmacy services at the NPA, said: "The new inspection regime will be very different and we will do all we can to help pharmacies achieve excellence."

Last month, GPhC chief executive Duncan Rudkin said the new regulations are being introduced in phases and are designed to improve standards of practice in the pharmacy sector.