1. Repeat Dispensing A Guide for Healthcare Professionals

2. What is the Repeat Dispensing service? • Essential service in the community pharmacy contract • Streamlines the process for patients obtaining repeat medicines • Electronic Prescription Service (EPS) – leading to paperless prescriptions.

3. An example of a Repeat Dispensing process Patient deemed suitable by GP Patient request Pharmacy suggestion PATIENT CONFIDENTIALITY Scheme explained and consent form signed Scheme explained and consent form signed PATIENT CONFIDENTIALITY Scheme explained and consent form signed Master & batch issues produced; Clinical System updated Prescription reviewed & Master signed by GP Patient collects Repeatable Prescription Prescription held securely by pharmacy Pharmacy schedules work load and ordering Patient visits pharmacy for medicines Dispensing check (contractual obligation) Time scale determined by GP Patient schedules with pharmacy? Pharmacist dispenses medicines Patient takes medicines Appropriate batch issue sent to PPD for reimbursement Patient makes appointment with GP Clinical Medication Review by GP? Final batch dispensed Final batch and authorising form sent to PPD Adapted from an original process produced by Eastern Birmingham & North Birmingham Primary Care Trusts, whilst participating in the NPC Community Pharmacy Framework Collaborative, 2005

4. Benefits to patients • Convenience • Saves time • Flexibility • Complete prescriptions (no ‘owings’) • Increased contact with pharmacist • Safety.

5. Benefits to general practice Reduced workload Reduced queries Quieter surgery Supports medication review Effective use of prescribing budget Patient safety.

6. Benefits to community pharmacy • Improved work planning • Improved stock control • Reduced waste handling • Fewer queries • Better working relationships • Opportunities for other services.

7. Benefits to the NHS Reduced waste Reduced GP administration Improved patient care Improved use of community pharmacy skills Patient safety.

8. Potential barriers Lack of awareness of the service as a whole Lack of understanding & confidence around the process Limited knowledge of the benefits of the service Poor collaboration between surgeries and pharmacies Initial set-up: time & staff Slow EPS progress

9. Solutions....... • Sell benefits to all stakeholders • Get a Champion and/or Facilitator • Create demand • Share knowledge • Start small • Regular training.