Background
The 2013 Regulations stipulate that a Controlled Drug Accountable Officer for a designated body must be a "fit, proper and suitably experienced person" (set out in regulation 8(1))
- The Controlled Drug Accountable Officer must be a senior manager of the organisation in question, or answerable to such a senior manager. Ideally, therefore, a Controlled Drug Accountable Officer will be a director or equivalent, or directly reporting to such a person.
- The Controlled Drug Accountable Officer must be an officer or employee of the organisation concerned, including where designated bodies act jointly or are part of the same umbrella undertaking.
- The Controlled Drug Accountable Officer should not routinely "prescribe, supply, administer or dispose of controlled drugs" as part of their duties (regulation 8(8)).
Responsibilities of the Controlled Drug Accountable Officer include
The 2013 Regulations stipulate that a Controlled Drug Accountable Officer for a designated body must be a "fit, proper and suitably experienced person" (set out in regulation 8(1))
- Ensuring that safe systems are in place for the management and use of controlled drugs.
- Ensuring clear and robust policies and procedures are in place for any employee of an organisation should they have concerns about the management and use of controlled drugs.
- Ensuring robust disposal and destruction arrangements are in place.
- Monitoring and auditing these systems.
- Ensuring that the declarations and self-assessments for controlled drugs are undertaken in accordance with the regulations.
- Having systems in place to alert the Controlled Drug Accountable Officer of any complaints or concerns involving the use or management of controlled drugs.
- Investigating concerns and incidents related to controlled drugs.
- Providing NHS England Controlled Drug Accountable Officer with quarterly occurrence reports detailing any concerns about the management of controlled drugs or confirmation that there are no concerns.
- Collaborating and sharing information about potential controlled drugs offences or actual systems failures.
- Sharing learning and taking action to address preventable causes of adverse occurrence.
- Providing assurance that incidents are reported and dealt with appropriately, including taking action in respect of such matters.
This form is only to be completed by Designated Bodies, and selected organisations as directed by the Controlled Drug Accountable Officer Regional Team.
