Friday 14 July 2017

Understanding The Electronic Prescription Service

Electronic Prescription Service

The NHS introduced the Electronic Prescription Service (EPS) for patients who take regular medicines to treat their chronic condition. Also called e-prescriptions or repeat prescriptions, electronic prescriptions are computer-generated prescriptions issued by your GP practice and sent directly to your pharmacy.


How does the service work?

Instead of writing your prescription on a paper, your GP enters it directly into his computer and then it travels from his computer to the pharmacy’s computer. Electronic prescriptions are sent electronically through a secure, private and closed network. There is no need to worry, as your prescription information is not sent through an email or an open network.


What are the benefits of the electronic prescription service?

  • E-prescriptions are fast. Your repeat prescription arrives at your dispenser before you leave your doctor’s clinic
  • Convenient – There is no need to make extra trips to your GP’s office just to collect your paper prescription
  • Legible – There is no hand-written prescription for the pharmacist to interpret
  • Economical – The service makes it easier for your GP to prescribe the most cost-effective medicine


Will my medicines be ready when I arrive at the chemist?

Your e-prescription arrives before you leave your GP’s office, but this does not mean it will always be ready at your pharmacy when you arrive.  There are a few things that can affect the time required to prepare your prescription, which include the number of prescription in your chemist’s computer, how quickly your GP sends the prescription, and how many patients are already waiting in the pharmacy store.


Can my GP send my prescriptions to any pharmacy I prefer?

Yes. More than 90% of community pharmacies in the UK currently offer the electronic prescription service. You must first nominate a pharmacy to allow your GP to send your electronic prescription.

Pharmacy Outlet is a UK’s online pharmacy that offers the Electronic Prescription Service. You can nominate it to refill your repeat prescriptions. Call 0333 222 400 to know more about the Electronic Prescription Service.