CPD for Pharmacists

Since 1999 Focus on Health has provided Continuing Professional Development (CPD) activities for a wide range of healthcare professionals. We are very proud to now also include pharmacists.

Our dedicated team strives to generate new solutions to make the CPD environment so much easier to navigate. Focus on Health’s pre-selection of activities and providing these timeously, save you time and money. While colleagues search for activities, are frustrated with data bundle fees, slow internet connections, your CPD is sorted. This gives you the advantage of always knowing we have your back when it comes to your CPD.

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What is CPD and how does it work?

Registered persons are required to keep abreast of developments in pharmacy practice and the pharmaceutical sciences, professional standards requirements, the laws governing pharmacy and medicines and advances in knowledge and technology relating to the use of medicines. This can only be achieved by an individual’s personal commitment to continuing professional development (CPD). CPD is the process by which persons registered with the SAPC continuously enhance their competence throughout their professional careers, and it encompasses a range of activities including continuing education and supplementary training.

The CPD process for pharmacists is not a point based system but is rather a comprehensive four step process. These steps are:

  • Step 1: Reflection

    • What do I need to know?
    • What do I need to be able to do?

  • Step 2: Planning

    • How can I learn what I need to learn?
    • What am I going to do to learn?

  • Step 3: Implementation

    • What did I do to achieve the learning outcome?

  • Step 4: Evaluation

    • What have I learnt?
    • How have I applied my learning?

Activities

  • P1(26) AI Regulations
    As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly integrated into healthcare, pharmacists need to understand the regulations governing its use. Knowledge of AI regulations helps ensure patient confidentiality, data protection, ethical decision-making, and compliance with professional standards. Understanding these regulations enables pharmacists to safely adopt AI technologies while maintaining accountability and delivering high-quality patient care.
  • P2(26) Back to Basics – General Ethical Principles and Guidelines
    Ethical principles form the foundation of professional pharmacy practice. Continuous learning in this area helps pharmacists uphold patient autonomy, beneficence, non-maleficence, and justice in their daily interactions. Regular review of ethical guidelines ensures that pharmacists make sound decisions, maintain public trust, and provide care that aligns with professional and legal expectations.
  • P3(26) The Aging Population: General Considerations for Healthcare Practitioners
    The global aging population presents unique healthcare challenges, including multiple chronic conditions, polypharmacy, and age-related physiological changes. Pharmacists must understand these considerations to optimize medication therapy, prevent adverse drug events, and improve treatment outcomes. Continuous learning in geriatric care enables pharmacists to better support the health and wellbeing of older adults.
  • P4(26) What to Do in an Emergency
    Pharmacists are often among the most accessible healthcare professionals and may encounter medical emergencies in community and clinical settings. Training in emergency response equips pharmacists with the knowledge and confidence to act quickly and appropriately during critical situations. This can improve patient outcomes and ensure effective collaboration with other healthcare professionals.
  • P5(26) Availability of Antidotes for Drug Poisonings and Doctors’ Perspectives Thereof
    Drug poisonings and overdoses can be life-threatening and require prompt intervention. Understanding the availability, indications, and administration of antidotes enables pharmacists to contribute effectively to poisoning management. This knowledge also enhances collaboration with physicians and other healthcare providers, ensuring timely access to appropriate treatment and improved patient safety.
  • P6(26) Basic Pharmacology at a Glance and the Use and Misuse of OTCs, Prescription Drugs and Supplements
    A strong understanding of pharmacology is essential for safe and effective medication management. Pharmacists must remain informed about the appropriate use of over-the-counter medicines, prescription drugs, and dietary supplements, as well as the risks associated with their misuse. Continuous learning in this area helps pharmacists identify potential interactions, counsel patients effectively, and promote the responsible use of medications and supplements.

Who needs to complete CPD activities?

According to Board Notice 201 of 2019 all registered pharmacists shall be required to comply with requirements for CPD effective from 1 January 2020 and are required to submit a minimum of six CPD activities by 31 December annually.

How can Focus on Health help me?

We would like to assure our members that we will be with you every step of the way throughout the annual CPD cycle.

As required by the SAPC, we will maintain your Portfolio of Evidence (PoE) on your behalf and submit it to the council on your behalf. In addition, you will continue to receive a new set of CPD activities every year, ensuring you stay up to date with emerging trends, current topics, and developments in pharmacy practice.

Fees

The annual membership fee is:

  • Online: R1000
  • Hard Copy: R1200
  • Email: R1100

This includes the articles and their multiple-choice questionnaires, as well as assistance to upload the four step CPD process onto the SAPC platform.

So what now?

If you would like to become a member you may complete the application online or download the application form below.

Complete Application Online
Download Application

If you would like to receive more information, or have any queries, please fill out the form below and we will get back to you.

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