ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Geriatric Pharmacy (Dip Geriatric Pharmacy)
The Level 3 Diploma in Geriatric Pharmacy (Dip Geriatric Pharmacy) is a specialised qualification designed for learners seeking to develop expertise in pharmaceutical care for older adults. With an ageing global population and increasing healthcare demands, there is a growing need for professionals who can ensure safe, effective, and patient-centred medication management for the elderly. This diploma equips learners with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills to address the unique challenges of geriatric pharmacotherapy, including polypharmacy, age-related physiological changes, and medication adherence.
Learners will gain an in-depth understanding of geriatric pharmacology, therapeutic optimisation, and patient assessment techniques, enabling them to make informed clinical decisions that enhance patient outcomes. The programme also emphasises the importance of medication safety, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance, preparing learners to contribute effectively to multidisciplinary healthcare teams. By integrating evidence-based practice with practical application, learners develop the confidence to assess, monitor, and improve medication use in older populations.
Designed for professionals aiming to enhance their career prospects, expand their knowledge, and strengthen their Continuing Professional Development (CPD), this diploma is ideal for pharmacists, healthcare practitioners, and those working in clinical or community pharmacy settings. Upon completion, learners are well-prepared to implement best practices in geriatric pharmacy, lead initiatives to improve patient care, and contribute to safer, more effective healthcare delivery. The qualification provides a pathway for career advancement, professional recognition, and specialised roles within the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors.
Level 3 Diploma in Geriatric Pharmacy (Dip Geriatric Pharmacy)
To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Geriatric Pharmacy (Dip Geriatric Pharmacy), learner must meet the following entry requirements:
This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Geriatric Pharmacy (Dip Geriatric Pharmacy), consists of 6 mandatory units.
- Principles of Geriatric Pharmacy
- Geriatric Pharmacology and Therapeutics
- Patient Assessment and Medication Management in Older Adults
- Medication Safety, Quality Assurance, and Risk Management
- Regulatory, Ethical, and Professional Standards in Geriatric Care
- Research Methods, Clinical Evidence, and Professional Communication
Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:
Principles of Geriatric Pharmacy
- Develop a comprehensive understanding of geriatric pharmacy principles and their importance in patient-centred care.
- Identify the challenges of medication management in older adults, including polypharmacy and age-related physiological changes.
- Apply foundational knowledge to improve therapeutic outcomes and support safer prescribing practices.
Geriatric Pharmacology and Therapeutics
- Understand the pharmacological principles relevant to older populations, including drug mechanisms, indications, contraindications, and side effects.
- Evaluate therapeutic regimens for effectiveness, safety, and appropriateness in geriatric patients.
- Apply evidence-based strategies to optimise medication therapy for elderly individuals with complex health needs.
Patient Assessment and Medication Management in Older Adults
- Conduct thorough patient assessments using clinical reasoning and validated tools tailored for older adults.
- Monitor patient responses to therapies, identifying adverse effects or potential interactions.
- Develop and implement personalised medication management plans to enhance patient safety and adherence.
Medication Safety, Quality Assurance, and Risk Management
- Apply best practices in medication safety, error prevention, and risk reduction in geriatric care.
- Analyse case studies to develop problem-solving skills for complex medication scenarios.
- Evaluate quality assurance processes to ensure compliance with safety standards and regulatory guidelines.
Regulatory, Ethical, and Professional Standards in Geriatric Care
- Understand the legal, ethical, and professional frameworks guiding geriatric pharmacy practice.
- Apply ethical decision-making in resolving complex clinical dilemmas related to older adults.
- Demonstrate adherence to professional codes of conduct and regulatory requirements in practice settings.
Research Methods, Clinical Evidence, and Professional Communication
- Critically appraise scientific literature, clinical trials, and research studies relevant to geriatric pharmacy.
- Apply evidence-based principles to inform clinical decisions and improve patient care outcomes.
- Communicate research findings, care recommendations, and clinical insights effectively to multidisciplinary teams.
Completing the Level 3 Diploma in Geriatric Pharmacy equips learners with specialised knowledge and practical skills that enhance career prospects, support professional growth, and strengthen Continuing Professional Development (CPD). This diploma prepares learners to take on leadership, clinical, and advisory roles in geriatric pharmacy and healthcare settings.
Career Opportunities
Learners can progress into professional roles such as:
- Geriatric Pharmacy Specialist – managing and optimising medication for older adults in clinical and community settings
- Medication Safety Officer – ensuring safe prescribing, dispensing, and monitoring of medications for elderly patients
- Clinical Audit Officer – assessing and improving medication safety and quality in geriatric care
- Pharmacy Compliance Officer – supporting adherence to regulatory and ethical standards in elderly care
- Healthcare Risk Management Specialist – identifying and mitigating medication-related risks in older populations
- Clinical Research Support Officer – contributing to research projects focused on geriatric pharmacotherapy and patient safety
Academic Pathways
The diploma also provides opportunities for further study, including:
- Level 4 and Level 5 Diplomas in Geriatric Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Quality Assurance, or Healthcare Management
- Specialist programmes in clinical governance, risk management, or regulatory affairs
- Undergraduate or postgraduate studies in pharmacy, healthcare, life sciences, or gerontology
Professional Development and CPD Growth
- Enhances professional credibility and competence in geriatric pharmacy practice
- Supports Continuing Professional Development (CPD) aligned with international healthcare and pharmaceutical standards
- Prepares learners for leadership, management, and specialised roles in pharmacy, clinical care, and research
