Model Standards of Practice for Canadian Pharmacy Technicians – Now available

The Model Standards of Practice for Canadian Pharmacy Technicians were approved by the OCP Council at their December 2011 meeting and will be helpful in addressing member questions about technicians’ scope of practice.

OF NOTE: Council’s approval of these Standards means that although an independent double check of the product prior to final release is identified as best practice, it is no longer a requirement for all situations. The Standards indicate that whenever possible, a final check must be performed by an individual who did not enter the prescription into the dispensing software system or who did not select the drug from stock.

The College is aware that there has been some confusion about the pharmacy technician* role. The following points are intended to clarify the role and responsibility of a regulated pharmacy technician. (*only individuals registered with the College may use the pharmacy technician title and perform these functions)

• Technicians are responsible and accountable for the technical aspects of both new and refill prescriptions, ( i.e. the correct patient, drug, dosage form/route, dose, doctor) and; Pharmacists remain responsible and accountable for the therapeutic/clinical appropriateness of all new and refill prescriptions.
• Each completed prescription must contain the signature of both the technician (for the technical functions) and the pharmacist for (the therapeutic functions).
• Pharmacy technicians are permitted to accept verbal prescriptions with the exception of narcotics and controlled drug substances.
• Once legislative changes to the Food and Drug Act regulations are in place, pharmacy technicians will be able to independently receive and provide prescription transfers.
• Each professional is accountable and responsible for practicing within his/her own scope and meeting the standards of practice associated with the profession. The role and scope may also be further defined by the policies of the workplace.
• The College Code of Ethics applies to all members.