An overview of the ACDA course structure, including the assessment process and the role of your facilitator. You will also have an overview of how to use our b-Hive learning platform to make the most of your learning experience.

• Core Module 1: Working in a Pharmacy Environment

• Core Module 2: Teamwork and Person-Centred Care

In the Core Modules, you will learn about your key responsibilities as a member of the healthcare team with regard to health and safety, standard operating procedures (SOPs) and safeguarding the public. You will learn about the roles of your team and the need for effective communication skills to support person-centred care. You should already be familiar with these concepts from practising as a dispensing assistant. The Core Modules will consolidate your knowledge, skills and behaviours in these areas.

Each Technical Module focuses on different aspects of an ACDA’s role, with a range of interactive activities built into the b-Hive platform to check your learning as you progress through the course. The underpinning knowledge in Technical Modules 1 to 3 will help to prepare you for building your accuracy checking portfolio and your future role as an ACDA.

Your Role as an ACDA

This module explores the role of an ACDA, recognising the attached responsibility and professionalism. You will become familiar with the specific SOPs for accuracy checking, including the use of patient information to carry out final checks. You will also explore the use of technologies to remove opportunities for errors in the dispensing process, and the hub and spoke model for dispensing. You will design your own checking protocol in preparation for the accuracy checking portfolio in Technical Module 4.

Creating a Patient Safety Culture

This module builds on the knowledge and skills required for error management. You will learn about the communication skills required to give feedback about errors and support others to learn and develop, which contribute to creating a patient safety culture.

Calculations

This module builds on the knowledge of performing calculations to final accuracy check prescriptions in terms of dose requirements and supply quantities, as well as basic calculations you should already be familiar with as a dispensing assistant. All candidates must complete the Technical Module 3 Calculations Test.

Assessment of Competence

This module is unlocked after completion of the Core Modules and Technical Modules 1 to 3, including submission of the assessments and Facilitator Testimony. This module outlines the requirements for compiling the accuracy checking portfolio, including appraisals with your facilitator, probationary period and certification.