Raising concerns Flashcards
Addressing Common Barriers to Raising Concerns
Addressing Common Barriers to Raising Concerns
The sources acknowledge that pharmacy professionals might hesitate to raise concerns due to various reasons, such as fear of:
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Causing trouble for colleagues
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Negative career impact
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Strained working relationships
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Reprisals
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Ineffective action
However, the sources emphasize that the duty to protect patients and the public outweighs these personal concerns, and legal protections exist for those who raise genuine concerns in good faith.
How to Raise a Concern: A Step-by-Step Guide
The sources provide clear guidance on the process of raising concerns, outlining practical steps and highlighting key considerations:
1.
Familiarity with employer policies: Pharmacy professionals should familiarize themselves with their employer’s whistleblowing policy and follow it whenever possible.
2.
Initial reporting: Concerns should typically be raised with the immediate supervisor or line manager.
3.
Alternative reporting avenues: If raising the concern with the line manager is not feasible (e.g., conflict of interest, involvement of the manager), alternative reporting options include:
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Designated individual for handling concerns
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Senior management: Chief pharmacist, pharmacy owner, superintendent pharmacist, or non-pharmacist manager
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Relevant organizations: Primary care organization (especially for controlled drug concerns), healthcare regulators, systems regulators
4.
Direct reporting for serious risks: Concerns involving immediate risk of death or serious harm should be reported directly to the superintendent pharmacist, head office, or pharmacy owner without delay.
5.
Record-keeping: Maintain a detailed record of the concern, the individuals involved, the reporting process, and any actions taken.
6.
Confidentiality: When possible, maintain confidentiality and avoid disclosing identifiable information without consent.
7.
Seeking advice: If unsure about how to proceed, seek guidance from sources like professional indemnity insurance providers, unions, professional bodies, or independent legal advisors
