AI at work, by industry · Pharmacists, pharmacy technicians, superintendent pharmacists, pharmacy owners and support staff
AI in pharmacy: the GPhC's position, accountability and the registered pharmacy
What the regulator expects of pharmacists, pharmacy technicians and owners when a tool is part of the work.
- 2modules
- 1.5CPD hours
- 90guided minutes
- Freeto study
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About this course
In April 2026 the General Pharmaceutical Council published a position statement on the use of AI in pharmacy practice, revalidation and education. It names where AI is turning up: diagnosis and prescribing, clinical checks in dispensing systems, operational tasks, and transcribing patient notes.
Its position is short. Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians are personally accountable for their professional practice, even when AI is being used, and must always be prepared to justify their decisions and actions. AI should not replace clinical decision making and professional judgement.
This course sets out what the statement expects of individuals and of pharmacy owners, what inspectors will look for, and where the line sits on revalidation. It teaches the position. It does not teach any product, and it is not clinical guidance.
What you will be able to do
- State the GPhC's position on accountability when AI is used
- List what the GPhC expects of pharmacists and pharmacy technicians
- Explain what the GPhC does not regulate, and who does
- List what pharmacy owners must be able to demonstrate
- Say what inspectors will look for
- State the position on AI and revalidation
- Explain AI use to a patient and seek consent where necessary
- Raise a concern about an AI tool
Modules
Assessment and certificate
Knowledge check after each module and a final assessment at 80 per cent, with unlimited attempts.
A digital certificate, issued the moment you have passed and paid, showing 1.5 CPD hours with a verification code. It evidences knowledge of the published position. It is not a regulated qualification, it is not legal or professional advice, and it is not endorsed by the General Pharmaceutical Council. Whether it counts towards your own CPD requirement is for you to judge against your body's rules.
Questions
Does the GPhC allow pharmacists to use AI?
Yes, within its standards. The position statement says pharmacists, pharmacy technicians and pharmacies must meet GPhC standards at all times, including where AI is used, and that professionals remain personally accountable.
Does the GPhC approve AI products?
No. It says it does not have a role in regulating AI tools or products or in assessing their clinical safety or technical performance. Many AI products for healthcare are regulated as medical devices by the MHRA.
Can I use AI to write my revalidation records?
The statement says it is not appropriate to use AI to create full revalidation submissions or to falsify information, and that doing so may lead to further investigation. If AI supports your revalidation, it must be used in a responsible and transparent way.
What will an inspector look for?
Evidence that the standards for registered pharmacies are being met when AI tools are used, including governance, staff competence, equipment, data protection and safety.