My dictionary defines "norm" as "a standard of achievement or behaviour that is required, desired, or designated as normal". One of the key tenets of the National Drug Policy is a ruling on what constitutes the norm, and what the exception. Pharmacists and their assistants will dispense, almost all other health professionals will prescribe. That is the norm. Any other state will be provided for by exception, by the provision of a permit or a specific license. However, it another use of the word "norm" which resonates more strongly for Pharmacy. In providing guidance on what constitutes acceptable professional behaviour, the Council intends using two complementary mechanisms. The norm will be prescribed in the form of Good Pharmacy Practice Guidelines. Deviance will be delineated by a list of "acts or omissions" on the basis of which disciplinary action might be taken – the familiar construct of the so-called "Ethical Rules". There is yet another use of the term "norm" – the description by Council of "staffing norms" for state hospitals and districts. At present these appear to be for guidance only – description rather than prescription. However, if Council is to ensure that the requisite standards of Pharmaceutical Care are achieved, not just desired, then the behaviour of the State as employee of pharmacists will have to be circumscribed rather than guided, prescribed rather than described. The current staffing of state health facilities is cause for concern – there are still hospitals in more rural areas that have no pharmacist posts at all. A clear statement that such behaviour is neither desirable nor "designated as normal" should be given without delay. To do so will ensure that the Council fulfils its obligation to protect the rights of all to universal standards of care, regardless of their ability to pay for such care