Around two thirds of prescriptions issued in the UK primary healthcare are known to be repeat prescriptions. According to a recent survey, the NHS electronic prescription services account for approximately 80% of NHS medicine costs for primary healthcare.
It is estimated that more than 400 million repeat prescriptions are generated each year. Approximately, 330 million of all repeat prescriptions could be replaced by repeat dispensing, which might save roughly 2 million hours of GP surgery.
The UK government introduced the repeat dispensing services in order to offer a more efficient way to manage repeat prescriptions in 2005. The NHS electronic prescription service (EPS) can only be employed when the prescribing and the dispensing systems make use of EPS Release 2.
The Electronic Repeat Dispensing service allows someone to get his or her repeat supplies of medicines without the need for the prescriber to issue a signed authorised paper script each time. The prescription is then made available for dispensing through a pharmacy that is nominated by a patient.
A GP surgery issues an electronic prescription using the EPS Release 2 prescribing system, which comprises:
- The intended gap between each repeat prescription issued
- The frequency of issuing a repeat prescription
Once a GP issues a repeat dispensing prescription, it can be sent electronically to the NHS, where it will be available for download by the patient’s nominated pharmacy.
Presently, a patient who nominates one pharmacy can use the NHS Electronic Prescription Service. The pharmacist can access the electronic prescription and dispense your medicine so that you can pick it up without much waiting. If you nominate an internet pharmacy such as Pharmacy Outlet, you will receive your medication right at your doorstep.
Patients who need a repeat prescription on a regular basis are suitable for repeat electronic dispensing. This includes patients:
- on stable therapy
- with long-standing conditions
- on multiple drug treatment
- managing their seasonal conditions.
Pharmacy Outlet offers the NHS Electronic Prescription Service in England only! Get your prescriptions delivered to your home by nominating Pharmacy Outlet.
