2.1.5 Conflicts of interest Share

Question 1

What is an actual conflict of interest?

Answer 1

An actual conflict of interest is when one or more interests materially conflict.

Question 2

A potential conflict of interest is where..?

Answer 2

There is a possibility of a conflict between one or more interests in the future.

Question 3

Some examples of conflicts of interest include:

Answer 3

• Having another job, or receiving consultancy fees (i.e., having an outside employment), which impact upon another role
• Receiving or being offered gifts from patients or suppliers to the NHS or your employer
• Receiving or being offered hospitality such as travel, accommodation, meals or refreshments, e.g., in relation to attending a meeting, conference or training event
• Receiving or being offered sponsorship for events, research grants or posts
• Owning shares in a company whose value could be influenced by your role
• Having an indirect interest or non-financial interest, e.g., if a spouse, close relative, business partner or close friend has an interest
• Receiving any other payments or ‘transfers of value’.

Question 4

Declarations will most commonly be made to:

Answer 4

• Your employer through a line manager, governance or conflict lead
• Someone commissioning your services
• A chairperson at the meetings which you attend.

Question 5

Does a declaration of an interest prevent an individual from carrying out a role?

Answer 5

A declaration of an interest does not necessarily prevent an individual from carrying out a role, but it ensures that there can be no perception that they are seeking to influence decisions improperly.

FURTHER READING
General Pharmaceutical Council
Joint statement from the Chief Executives of statutory regulators of health and care professionals

www.pharmacyregulation.org
NHS England
Managing conflicts of interest in the NHS.

www.england.nhs.uk