This circular includes information to remind stakeholders about the VPA’s approach to licence applications involving new and complex commercial arrangements; a part of the way we ensure that all Victorian pharmacies are owned, operated, and controlled only by registered pharmacists. There is also an update on improvements to the inspection program.

Licensees are reminded of standard conditions on all licences requiring them to notify the VPA of proposed changes to pharmacy commercial arrangements, and of distributions made to a beneficiary under a pharmacy trust arrangement.

VPA inspectors encourage licensees and pharmacists to review their dose administration aid procedures to ensure they comply with the Pharmacy Board of Australia’s Guidelines on dose administration aids and staged supply of dispensed medicines. There are also key lessons for licensees from recent panel hearings, including the risks high workloads pose for patient safety.

I am also pleased to share that the Pharmacy services self-audit tool: Immunisation site readiness is now available to assist pharmacies that offer immunisation services to meet their obligations and support good pharmacy practice. This self-audit tool was codesigned by the VPA and Victorian Department of Health.

David McConville
Chair