Documentation must be accurate, complete, accessible and must be kept for at least 7 years. All paperwork must be shredded and information stored electronically must be protected so that it cannot be accessed by unauthorised persons.xv When transferring a consumer’s personal or health information overseas, such as to a cloud service provider, it is crucial to ensure that the provider is contractually bound not to use or disclose this information, as per Australian Privacy Principle (APP) 8.xv,xv This is to safeguard the consumer’s data and maintain privacy standards.
It is the responsibility of the pharmacist to gain consent from the consumer, carer or legal guardian for the provision of the pharmacy service and the collection of the personal information for that purpose. It is also the responsibility of the pharmacist to gain consent from the patient for the sharing of the relevant information with the patient’s medical practitioner, and the sharing of personal information with the Pharmacy Programs Administrator (PPA) and the Department of Health and Aged Care or relevant agency for the purposes of payment.
In conclusion, clinical governance and the quality use of medicines (QUM) are fundamental components of effective pharmacy services. By adhering to the principles of clinical governance, pharmacists can ensure the delivery of safe, effective, and patient-centred care. This involves a commitment to continuous improvement, professional development, and the implementation of robust systems and processes that support high standards of practice.
The integration of QUM principles further enhances the role of pharmacists in promoting the judicious, appropriate, safe, and effective use of medicines. This not only improves patient outcomes but also contributes to the overall sustainability of the healthcare system by reducing medication-related errors and adverse events.
