As in most countries, the practice of a profession in South Africa requires evidence of an appropriate level of education and practical experience. The recognition of qualifications in most health-related professions is the responsibility of a registration authority established by government statute. To be able to work as a pharmacist in South Africa, registration with the South African Pharmacy Council is needed. The practice of pharmacy by unregistered persons is punishable by law. A candidate who obtained their qualification outside South Africa may apply for registration as a pharmacist subject to compliance with the requirements as set by Council.
Pharmacists in South Africa are expected to:
| • | organise the manufacturing, compounding and packaging of pharmaceutical products; |
| • | organise the procurement, storage and distribution of pharmaceutical products; |
| • | dispense and ensure the optimum use of medicine prescribed to the patient; |
| • | provide pharmacist initiated care to the patient and ensure the optimum use of medicine; |
| • | provide education and information on health care and medicine; |
| • | promote community health and provide related information and advice; |
| • | participate in research to ensure the optimal use of medicine. |
All applications are considered by the CPD committee of Council. Each application is considered on merit. After an application has been evaluated, Council may decide, that, if the applicant complies with all the requirements and has passed the necessary examinations he/she may be registered either as a pharmacists’ assistant, pharmacist intern for purposes of undergoing practical training or register the applicant as a pharmacist for purpose of performing pharmaceutical community service.
To inform foreign qualified persons of the requirements regarding registration in pharmacy.
| 3. | REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS |
Candidates who wish to register in pharmacy must submit the following documents:
| (a) | Application forms approved by Council and proof of payment of the prescribed fee; |
| (b) | Certified copy of ID/Passport; |
| (c) | Original SAQA evaluation certificate; |
| (d) | Original confirmation letter from examining body/university; |
| (e) | Certified copy of qualification as a pharmacist; |
| (f) | Original International English Language Testing System Certificate (IELTS); |
| (g) | Certified proof of registration as a pharmacist with the regulatory body; |
| (h) | Original letter of Good Standing from the regulatory body; |
| (i) | Proof of practical training or internship from the regulatory body; |
| (j) | Information regarding syllabus and curriculum of the qualification; |
| (k) | Letter of support from DOH/FWMP; |
| (l) | Proof of participation in CPD in the country of origin. |
Once all the required documents have been received, evaluated and complies with the criteria set by Council and the applicant is successful in the professional examinations, the applicant will be issued with a letter informing them of the approval.
The candidates shall be required to pay a prescribed fee for evaluation of their credentials as published.
