B8 Fitness to practise

Question 1

what is the GPhC definition of FtP?

Answer 1

• a person’s suitability to be on the register without restrictions
• maintain appropriate standards of proficiency
• ensure good health and character
• adhere to principles of good practise

Question 2

state some reasons for why FtP may be impaired

Answer 2

misconduct
lack of competence
ill-health
criminal offences
drug or alcohol misuse
cheating or plagiarising
dishonesty or fraud

Question 3

what things should be considered when considering student FtP?

Answer 3

• seriousness of the behaviour
• patterns of behaviour
• maturity of student and year of study
• likelihood of repeat behaviour and how well they would respond to support

Question 4

what are the purposes of sanctions imposed from FtP concerns?

Answer 4

• protection of the public
• maintenance of public confidence in the profession
• maintenance of proper standards of behaviour

Question 5

state and explain some potential implications of FtP

Answer 5

• undertakings: will have a requirement to comply with undertakings imposed
• conditions: may be required to inform all future employers of misdemeanour, may be subject to re-training
• suspension: additional financial strain
• termination: inability to become a pharmacist or other healthcare professional

Question 6

what is a mitigating factor?

Answer 6

• any factor that might seek to lessen the seriousness of the allegation presented
• eg. no prior disciplinary history

Question 7

what is an aggravating factor?

Answer 7

• any factor that may increase the seriousness of the allegation presented
• eg. not owning up to it