Ethics and Ethical Standards for Pharmacists
Course DescriptionEthics and Ethical Standards for Pharmacists is a CPD course for pharmacists in Australia who want to strengthen ethical reasoning, accountability, and professional standards in their daily practice. It is particularly relevant for those facing AHPRA or Pharmacy Board notifications, remediation requirements, or fitness to practise processes, but also valuable for pharmacists seeking CPD to embed ethical integrity into their work.
The course explores the foundations of pharmacy ethics, including autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, justice, confidentiality, and cultural safety. Participants will review the Pharmacy Board of Australia's Code of Conduct and learn how to apply ethical principles to real-world scenarios such as dispensing, counselling, record-keeping, interprofessional communication, and managing conflicts between commercial and clinical priorities.
Common ethical breaches — including confidentiality lapses, inappropriate supply, and misleading advertising — are examined alongside their regulatory consequences. Through reflective models, case studies, and practical strategies, this course equips pharmacists to recognise ethical challenges early, respond constructively to complaints, and demonstrate insight, reflection, and remediation. By the end, participants will have the tools to protect patient safety, uphold professional standards, and maintain the trust of regulators, colleagues, and the public.