Can a pharmacist refuse an inspection if the inspector has only a Notice of Inspection?

A pharmacist cannot refuse an inspection if an inspector has a Notice of Inspection. The presence of a Notice of Inspection signifies that the inspector is operating under legal authority granted to them to assess the pharmacy's compliance with regulations. When a Notice of Inspection is issued, it implies that the inspection is part of a routine oversight or compliance check, and pharmacists are legally obligated to allow inspectors access to their premises.

Refusal to allow an inspection could lead to legal consequences for the pharmacist or pharmacy. It's important to recognize that inspectors must follow specific protocols, but pharmacists do not retain the control to deny making their premises available for inspection under a Notice. Inspectors equipped with such notice are conducting their duties to ensure adherence to safety and regulatory standards that govern pharmacy operations.

While there are certain circumstances under which a pharmacist may contest an inspection under a search warrant or similar legal documentation, a Notice of Inspection does not carry the same weight for refusal. Therefore, the correct viewpoint is that the inspection must proceed when a Notice of Inspection is presented.