Singapore Pharmacy Council: Everything You Need to Know

If you are interested in learning about the regulation of pharmacists and pharmacies in Singapore, you may want to know about the Singapore Pharmacy Council (SPC). The SPC is a statutory board under the Ministry of Health that registers and regulates pharmacists in Singapore. Its functions include maintaining the Register of Pharmacists, governing their conduct and ethics, and administering the Continuing Professional Education (CPE) framework.

The SPC plays an important role in ensuring the quality and safety of pharmacy practice in Singapore. It sets standards for education, training, and practice, and monitors compliance with these standards. It also investigates complaints against pharmacists and takes disciplinary action when necessary. In addition, the SPC works closely with other healthcare professionals and organizations to promote interprofessional collaboration and patient-centered care.

Key Takeaways

• The Singapore Pharmacy Council is a statutory board under the Ministry of Health that regulates pharmacy practice and professionals in Singapore.
• The SPC maintains the Register of Pharmacists, governs their conduct and ethics, and administers the CPE framework.
• The SPC sets standards for education, training, and practice, investigates complaints against pharmacists, and works with other healthcare professionals and organizations to promote interprofessional collaboration and patient-centered care.

Registration and Practice

If you’re interested in practising as a pharmacist in Singapore, you need to register with the Singapore Pharmacy Council (SPC). The SPC is responsible for maintaining a register of qualified pharmacists and regulating their professional conduct and ethics.

Pharmacists Registration Act

The Pharmacists Registration Act is the legislation that governs the registration of pharmacists in Singapore. It establishes the SPC and outlines the requirements for registration, including the qualifications and competency standards that must be met.

Practising Certificate

Once you’re registered with the SPC, you’ll need to apply for a Practising Certificate to legally practise as a pharmacist in Singapore. This certificate is issued annually and requires proof of continuing professional education (CPE) and adherence to the SPC’s Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct.

Continuing Professional Education

The SPC requires pharmacists to engage in ongoing CPE to maintain their competency and ensure they’re up-to-date with the latest developments in the field. Pharmacists must complete a minimum of 20 CPE points per year, with a focus on areas such as patient safety, drug therapy, and communication skills.

In addition to these requirements, the SPC also offers a range of services to support registered pharmacists, including specialist pharmacist accreditation and guidance on ethical and legal issues related to practice.

Overall, registration with the SPC is a crucial step for anyone interested in practising as a pharmacist in Singapore. By adhering to the requirements of the Pharmacists Registration Act, obtaining a Practising Certificate, and engaging in ongoing CPE, you can ensure that you’re providing the highest level of care to your patients and contributing to the advancement of the field.

Governance and Resources

Ministry of Health Collaboration

The Singapore Pharmacy Council (SPC) works closely with the Ministry of Health (MOH) to ensure that the standards and regulations for pharmacy practice in Singapore are up-to-date and aligned with national healthcare policies. The MOH provides guidance and support for the SPC in its mission to regulate the pharmacy profession, and the SPC collaborates with the MOH to ensure that pharmacists are well-trained and equipped to provide high-quality care to patients.

Annual Report and Publication

The SPC publishes an annual report to provide stakeholders with an overview of its activities and achievements over the past year. The report includes information on the SPC’s governance structure, financial performance, and key initiatives. The SPC also publishes a range of other publications, including guidelines and standards for pharmacy practice, to help pharmacists stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the field.

Training and Preceptors

The SPC is committed to nurturing the next generation of pharmacists in Singapore. The SPC provides training opportunities for aspiring pharmacists, including internships and other forms of on-the-job training. The SPC also works closely with institutions and hospitals to ensure that preceptors are well-trained and equipped to provide effective mentorship to pharmacy students.

In order to ensure that the pharmacy profession in Singapore continues to have a positive impact on patients and the wider healthcare system, the SPC is guided by a set of core values and principles. These include a commitment to excellence, professionalism, and ethical conduct at all times. By working closely with stakeholders across the healthcare system, the SPC is able to ensure that pharmacists in Singapore are well-trained, well-supported, and well-respected.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I register as a pharmacist with the Singapore Pharmacy Council?

To register as a pharmacist with the Singapore Pharmacy Council, you must meet the registration requirements and submit a completed application form. The requirements include a recognised pharmacy degree, completion of a pre-registration training program, and passing the Singapore Pharmacy Council’s registration examination. You can find more information on the registration process on the Singapore Pharmacy Council’s website.

What are the requirements for foreign pharmacists to practice in Singapore?

Foreign pharmacists who wish to practice in Singapore must meet the same registration requirements as local pharmacists. In addition, they must also have a valid work pass or be a Singapore Permanent Resident. More information on the registration process for foreign pharmacists can be found on the Singapore Pharmacy Council’s website.

Which universities are recognised by the Singapore Pharmacy Council for pharmacist qualifications?

The Singapore Pharmacy Council recognises pharmacy degrees from universities that are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE) or the Canadian Council for Accreditation of Pharmacy Programs (CCAPP). A list of recognised universities can be found on the Singapore Pharmacy Council’s website.

How do I contact the Singapore Pharmacy Council for enquiries?

You can contact the Singapore Pharmacy Council through their email address, [email protected], or by phone at +65 6332 8878. More information on how to contact the Singapore Pharmacy Council can be found on their website.

What is the process for pharmacist license verification in Singapore?

Pharmacist license verification in Singapore can be done through the Singapore Pharmacy Council’s online portal. You will need to provide your registration number and other personal information to verify your license. More information on the license verification process can be found on the Singapore Pharmacy Council’s website.

How often must I undertake Continuing Professional Education (CPE) as a pharmacist in Singapore?

As a pharmacist in Singapore, you are required to undertake a minimum of 20 hours of Continuing Professional Education (CPE) every year. This is to ensure that you stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the pharmacy field and maintain your professional competency. More information on the CPE requirements can be found on the Singapore Pharmacy Council’s website.