THE Victorian Pharmacy Authority (VPA) has raised concerns over reporting of pharmacy ownership in the state.
In its latest circular, VPA Chair, David McConville, expressed disappointment at "recent media reports or statements claiming that certain entities own hundreds of pharmacies without evidence to support the claims".
"The Authority reminds stakeholders that only registered pharmacists, companies of pharmacists and eligible friendly societies may own pharmacies in Victoria," he said.
"The Authority will continue to ensure that legislated ownership provisions are upheld.
"This is supported by comprehensive licence application assessment processes, pharmacy ownership audits and franchise reviews."
The VPA said it is committed to ensuring all pharmacies in the state are owned, operated and controlled only by registered pharmacists.
Under Victorian legislation pharmacists, or pharmacy companies, "must not own or have a proprietary interest in more than five separate pharmacy businesses" in the state.
McConville said the VPA had written to licensees regarding the outcomes of a number of pharmacy business ownership audits in recent weeks.
"In cases where the pharmacy was operating under a commercial arrangement for which the Authority had not yet completed a detailed assessment, licensees were advised that a condition will be imposed on the licence.
"This 'commercial arrangement' condition details the action the authority may take if, after further investigation, the commercial arrangements are found to contravene the Act.
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