Coronial inquest raises questions over tensions between GPs and pharmacists

A coronial inquest into the death of a Melbourne grandfather has raised questions about what the course of action should be when a GP and a pharmacist disagree on medication.

A report in today’s Age details how the 77-year-old’s pharmacist raised concerns with the doctor about the dosage.

Pharmacist and 3AW health commentator Gerald Quigley told 3AW Breakfast pharmacists are the guardians of medication.

“The person who outranks both is the patient,” he said.

“In the general discussion, the doctor is the person who takes the course of action they want to take.

“If the pharmacist believes it is not in the best interest of the patient, or put the patient at risk, you’ve sometimes got to stick to your digs.”

He said a pharmacist can refuse to dispense medication if they have concerns.

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