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Professionalism and Professional Standards for Pharmacists

Course Content

1

Section 1: Introduction

  • 1.1 The meaning of professionalism in Canadian pharmacy practice

  • 1.2 Why professionalism matters for patient safety, trust, and public confidence

  • 1.3 Oversight of professional standards by NAPRA and provincial and territorial pharmacy regulators

2

Section 2: Core Attributes

  • 2.1 Integrity and honesty in pharmacy practice

  • 2.2 Respect, compassion, and treating patients with dignity

  • 2.3 Accountability to patients, colleagues, regulators, and society

  • 2.4 Altruism and service: prioritising patient welfare in pharmacy

  • 2.5 Professional appearance, communication, and conduct in all settings

3

Section 3: Professional Standards

  • 3.1 Expectations for clear and respectful communication with patients and prescribers

  • 3.2 Fitness to practise, complaints, and mandatory reporting

  • 3.3 Confidentiality and appropriate use of patient health information

  • 3.4 Digital professionalism: responsible use of records, technology, and social media

  • 3.5 Professionalism beyond dispensing: leadership, teaching, and public health advocacy

4

Section 4: Boundaries & Relationships

  • 4.1 Understanding the pharmacist-patient power imbalance

  • 4.2 Avoiding dual relationships: financial, social, or sexual

  • 4.3 Maintaining professional relationships with colleagues and teams

  • 4.4 Boundaries in digital interactions and virtual pharmacy services

  • 4.5 Cultural sensitivity and professionalism in a diverse Canadian healthcare system

5

Section 5: Breaches of Standards

  • 5.1 Common breaches in pharmacy practice

  • 5.2 How concerns are reported and investigated by pharmacy regulators

  • 5.3 Possible outcomes of investigations

  • 5.4 Wider impacts of unprofessional behaviour

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Section 6: Reflection, Insight & Remediation

  • 6.1 Self-awareness as the foundation of professionalism

  • 6.2 Reflective practice as required by pharmacy regulators

  • 6.3 Demonstrating insight when standards are questioned

  • 6.4 Remediation options: CPD, supervision, mentorship, counselling, or practice changes

  • 6.5 Rebuilding trust through accountability and growth