The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Geriatric Pharmacy (D Geriatric Pharmacy) is a specialised qualification designed for healthcare and pharmacy professionals who wish to enhance their career prospects, expand their expertise, and strengthen their Continuing Professional Development (CPD) in the care of older adults. This advanced diploma equips learners with the knowledge, skills, and practical competencies required to optimise pharmaceutical care for the ageing population, ensuring safe, effective, and patient-centred medication management.
The programme covers essential areas including age-related pharmacology, polypharmacy management, medication safety, regulatory compliance, and evidence-based interventions in geriatric care. Learners will gain the ability to assess, monitor, and optimise medication regimens for elderly patients, recognising the unique physiological, psychological, and social considerations of this population. By integrating theoretical knowledge with practical application, the course prepares learners to address complex challenges in geriatric pharmacy and contribute to improved health outcomes.
Centres delivering this qualification are required to employ competent and qualified staff with expertise in pharmacy, geriatric care, and pharmaceutical practice. Additionally, they must provide up-to-date resources, relevant learning materials, and appropriate facilities to ensure high-quality training and learner success. These requirements guarantee an effective and supportive learning environment that fosters professional growth.
Upon successful completion of the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Geriatric Pharmacy, learners will be well-positioned for advanced roles in hospitals, community pharmacies, care homes, healthcare organisations, and research settings. This qualification empowers learners to become leaders in geriatric pharmaceutical care, enhancing safety, efficacy, and the overall quality of healthcare services for older adults.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Geriatric Pharmacy (D Geriatric Pharmacy):
The QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Geriatric Pharmacy (D Geriatric Pharmacy), consists of a structured set of study units designed to provide learners with in-depth and comprehensive knowledge. The qualification includes a total of 1200 Total Qualification Time (TQT), 600 Guided Learning Hours (GLH), and awards 120 credits.
| Unit Ref# | Unit Title | Credits | GLH | TQT |
| QC30073- 1 | Advanced Pharmacology in Geriatrics | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC30073-2 | Clinical Management of Geriatric Patients | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC30073-3 | Medication Optimization and Safety | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC30073-4 | Pharmacy Leadership and Ethics in Geriatrics | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC30073-5 | Advanced Therapeutics and Evidence-Based Practice | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC30073-6 | Research Methods and Quality Improvement in Geriatric Pharmacy | 20 | 100 | 200 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Geriatric Pharmacy (D Geriatric Pharmacy):
Minimum Age
- Candidates must be 18 years or older.
Educational Background
- A recognized undergraduate degree in pharmacy, pharmaceutical sciences, medicine, or a related healthcare field.
- Alternatively, candidates with a Level 5 Diploma or equivalent professional qualification in pharmacy or healthcare may be considered.
Experience
- Minimum of 2 years of work experience in a pharmacy, clinical, or healthcare setting, ideally involving care for older adults.
- Experience in medication management, patient counseling, or pharmaceutical practice is highly beneficial.
Language Proficiency
- Proficiency in English is required. Candidates may need to provide proof through recognized tests such as IELTS (6.0+), TOEFL, or equivalent, if English is not the first language.
Commitment to CPD
- Candidates must demonstrate a commitment to ongoing CPD, professional development, and staying updated with the latest advancements in geriatric pharmacotherapy.
Access to Required Resources
- Learners must have access to internet-enabled devices, pharmacy references, and healthcare databases for study, research, and practical assignments.
- Access to a clinical or pharmacy setting for practical application is recommended where possible.
Learning Outcomes for QualCert Level 6 Diploma in Geriatric Pharmacy (D Geriatric Pharmacy):
Advanced Pharmacology in Geriatrics
- Understand age-related changes in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics
- Evaluate the impact of polypharmacy in older adults
- Identify and manage potential drug interactions in geriatric patients
- Apply advanced pharmacological principles to optimize medication therapy
Clinical Management of Geriatric Patients
- Assess, diagnose, and develop care plans for common geriatric conditions
- Interpret clinical data relevant to older patients
- Implement evidence-based strategies for chronic disease management
- Promote patient-centered care and adherence in geriatric populations
Medication Optimization and Safety
- Identify strategies to reduce adverse drug reactions in older adults
- Evaluate medication regimens for efficacy and safety
- Apply deprescribing principles and monitoring techniques
- Enhance patient safety through clinical interventions and counseling
Pharmacy Leadership and Ethics in Geriatrics
- Demonstrate leadership skills in geriatric pharmacy settings
- Apply ethical decision-making frameworks in patient care
- Understand regulatory and legal considerations in pharmacy practice
- Develop professional skills for managing multidisciplinary teams
Advanced Therapeutics and Evidence-Based Practice
- Interpret clinical guidelines and research for geriatric pharmacotherapy
- Apply evidence-based principles to individualized patient treatment plans
- Evaluate therapeutic outcomes and optimize medication strategies
- Integrate new research into clinical decision-making
Research Methods and Quality Improvement in Geriatric Pharmacy
- Design and conduct research projects in geriatric pharmacy
- Analyze and interpret data to improve clinical practice
- Develop quality improvement initiatives for patient care
- Apply research findings to enhance safety, efficacy, and efficiency in geriatric pharmacotherapy
The Course is ideal for :
- Registered Pharmacists seeking advanced expertise in geriatric pharmacotherapy
- Healthcare Professionals involved in the care of older adults, including nurses, clinicians, and medical practitioners
- Pharmacy Managers and Supervisors aiming to enhance leadership and clinical decision-making skills
- Clinical Researchers focusing on geriatric medicine and pharmaceutical care
- Medical Educators and Trainers wishing to update knowledge and integrate best practices in geriatric pharmacy
- Healthcare Professionals pursuing Continuing Professional Development (CPD) to advance their careers
- Pharmacy Students and Graduates looking to specialize in geriatric care and improve patient outcomes
- Must be a registered and accredited learning centre recognized by QualCert
- Qualified teaching staff with relevant pharmacy, clinical, or healthcare experience
- Access to library resources, pharmaceutical references, and clinical databases
- Availability of internet-enabled devices for online learning and research
- Facilities to support practical sessions, case studies, and research projects
- Systems for monitoring learner progress, assessments, and quality assurance
- Compliance with health and safety regulations for learners in clinical or practical settings
- Commitment to continuing professional development (CPD) for staff delivering the course
- Ability to deliver course content in English and provide necessary support for learners