Introduction of Statutory Regulation of the Pharmacy Technician Workforce in Northern Ireland

Overview

This consultation is seeking views on the proposal to regulate pharmacy technicians in NI and is the first step on a journey to bring forward this new healthcare profession. It will allow a new profession to be established in NI and to enable the Regulator to strengthen its role in protecting patients and promoting high standards, thereby enhancing the public’s confidence and trust in pharmacy practice. The steps we are taking together now, and in the future, will contribute to these goals and strengthen public confidence in professional regulation.

Why your views matter

For many members of the public, pharmacists and pharmacy staff are among the most accessible of all health care workers. Across the Health Service in NI, reform is taking place to ensure future demands of the population are met. As part of the wider HSC agenda, commitment to enhance existing roles alongside the development of new roles within multi-disciplinary teams and greater skill mix within healthcare teams will ensure the delivery of high quality, safe and accessible healthcare.

What happens next

The closing date for responses to the consultation is 16th May 2022. It is the intention that a summary of responses to the consultation will be published on the Department’s website.

If, following this consultation, a decision is made to introduce statutory regulation for Pharmacy Technicians, a further consultation will be required once the detailed drafting of the necessary legislation had been completed.