In recent years, the question of whether UK-trained pharmacists can work in Ireland has become increasingly relevant due to changes in regulations following Brexit. The UK’s departure from the European Union in 2020 significantly impacted the mobility of healthcare professionals between the UK and EU countries, including Ireland. However, despite Brexit, UK pharmacists still have pathways to work in Ireland, although the process and requirements have evolved. Here’s a breakdown of the key steps and conditions for UK pharmacists looking to work in Ireland.
Recognising UK Pharmacy Qualifications in Ireland
To practice as a pharmacist in Ireland, all candidates, whether they are trained in Ireland or elsewhere, must be registered with the Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland (PSI), which is the regulatory body for pharmacists in Ireland. UK-trained pharmacists can apply for registration with the PSI, but they must go through a specific process for qualification recognition.
Here’s a general outline of the process for UK pharmacists wishing to work in Ireland:
Step 1: Apply for PSI Registration
Pharmacists trained in the UK need to apply for registration with the PSI. This application typically involves submitting documentation of their qualifications, including evidence of their degree, professional experience, and any relevant certifications. The PSI will assess the applicant’s qualifications and determine if they meet the standards for practicing pharmacy in Ireland.
Step 2: Recognition of Qualifications
The PSI will assess whether a UK pharmacy degree is considered equivalent to an Irish qualification. If the degree is recognised as equivalent, the applicant may be granted full registration as a pharmacist in Ireland. However, in some cases, additional assessments or evidence may be required.
Step 3: Passing the PSI Registration Exam (if necessary)
Depending on your results achieved at this Equivalence Exam, you may be able to progress directly to Step Four (see below) or may be required to enter into an adaptation period working in a pharmacy under the supervision of a tutor pharmacist. This adaptation period may vary.
Step 4: Passing the Professional Registration Examination (PRE)
After completing your adaptation period, you can then take the Professional Registration Examination (PRE). This exam will confirm that you possess the correct knowledge, skills and competencies that are required for practice as a pharmacist in Ireland.
Working in the Irish Pharmacy Sector
Once you have received confirmation that your qualification has been recognised by the PSI, you are eligible to move onto step two: applying for registration. You can apply to register as a pharmacist in Ireland by using the PSI online registration portal.
Key areas that pharmacists will need to understand include:
- Irish Pharmaceutical Law
- Health Insurance and Public Health Services
- Prescription Medications and Generic Substitution
PSI Registration Fees: As a first time registrant, you will be required to pay a registration fee of €540.
Following this, an annual continued registration fee of €380 will apply.
Ongoing Professional Development
Pharmacists in Ireland are required to engage in continuing professional development (CPD) to maintain their registration with the PSI. UK-trained pharmacists will need to ensure they stay up to date with the latest pharmaceutical practices, new medications, and regulatory changes in Ireland. The PSI provides various resources and training programs to help pharmacists with this.
In conclusion, UK pharmacists can still work in Ireland, although there are now additional steps to be followed post-Brexit. UK-trained pharmacists must apply for registration with the Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland, have their qualifications assessed, and, in some cases, may need to sit for exams or complete supervised practice. However, the Common Travel Area (CTA) agreement between the UK and Ireland allows UK nationals to live and work in Ireland without the need for a visa, and with the proper qualifications, UK pharmacists can integrate into the Irish pharmacy workforce.
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