Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for Locum Pharmacists

Purpose

The purpose of this SOP is to outline the procedure to be followed when a pharmacy requires a locum pharmacist to cover a shift.

Scope

This SOP applies to all staff members responsible for managing and scheduling pharmacy staff.

Procedure

When a pharmacy requires a locum pharmacist, the following procedure should be followed:

Step 1: Internal staff availability

Check if any internal staff members are available and can cover the shift. If an internal staff member is available, confirm that they are competent to cover the shift and update the staff schedule accordingly.

Step 2: External locum availability

Check if any external locum pharmacists are available and can cover the shift.

Preferred Locum	Contact	Are they a Pharmacy SOS Locum*
eg. John Smith	0400 000 000	Yes

Step 3: Pharmacy SOS

If no internal staff or external locum pharmacists are available, contact Pharmacy SOS on 1300 505 247 or email sos@pharmacysos.com.au. Provide the details of the shift and the requirements for the locum pharmacist.

Documentation

All requests for locum staff should be documented in the pharmacy’s scheduling or staffing system.

Responsibilities

The following staff members are responsible for following this SOP:

• Management
• Scheduling or staffing coordinators

Training

All relevant staff members should receive training on this SOP and be aware of the process for requesting locum staffing.

Review and Revision

This SOP will be reviewed annually by management and updated as necessary.

When the unplanned happens, we are the plan. Ensure that Pharmacy SOS’s phone number is included somewhere visible and easy to access in case of emergencies.

End of SOP.

*If the preferred locum was introduced through Pharmacy SOS, please also notify Pharmacy SOS if the locum is rostered.