Remote Prescribing

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Clinical Terms
The practice of issuing prescriptions without face-to-face consultation, using telephone, video, or online platforms within the NHS primary care system.

What is Remote Prescribing?

What is ?

Remote prescribing refers to the process where healthcare professionals issue prescriptions without physically seeing the patient. In UK primary care networks, this is typically conducted via telephone consultations, video appointments, online platforms, or smartphone applications. This approach has become increasingly significant in the NHS, particularly since the COVID-19 pandemic, providing essential medication access while reducing unnecessary in-person appointments. Remote prescribing is governed by strict GMC guidance to ensure patient safety and appropriate care delivery.

Remote Prescribing Best Practices

What is ?

  • Conduct thorough patient assessment before remote prescribing, including reviewing medical history and current medications
  • Ensure secure communication channels that comply with NHS data protection requirements
  • Document remote prescribing decisions with the same detail as face-to-face consultations
  • Establish clear protocols for when remote prescribing is inappropriate and in-person assessment is necessary
  • Regularly audit remote prescribing practices to ensure quality and safety standards

Use Remote Prescribing in a Sentence

What is ?

  1. Dr. Smith implemented a remote prescribing system for routine medication renewals, significantly reducing unnecessary appointments in the Primary Care Network.
  2. The GMC guidelines on remote prescribing emphasise the importance of verifying patient identity before issuing any prescription.
  3. During the pandemic, remote prescribing became essential for maintaining continuity of care while minimising infection risk to vulnerable patients.
Frequently Asked Questions about
Remote Prescribing

What does Remote Prescribing mean?

Remote prescribing is the practice of healthcare professionals issuing prescriptions without face-to-face consultation. In UK Primary Care Networks, this typically occurs via telephone, video calls, online platforms or apps. It enables clinicians to prescribe medications after assessing patients virtually, following GMC guidelines to ensure safety and appropriate care.

Is remote prescribing safe and legal in the UK?

Yes, remote prescribing is both legal and safe when conducted properly. The General Medical Council (GMC) provides comprehensive guidance for healthcare professionals. Prescribers must ensure they have adequate information about the patient's health, can make appropriate clinical assessments, and communicate effectively. However, certain medications with higher risks or those requiring physical examination may not be suitable for remote prescribing.

What types of conditions are suitable for remote prescribing?

Remote prescribing is generally suitable for stable, chronic conditions where the patient is known to the practice, such as hypertension, hypothyroidism, or diabetes maintenance. It's also appropriate for minor, well-recognised conditions like UTIs, minor skin conditions, or hay fever. Repeat prescriptions for ongoing medications can often be handled remotely. Conditions requiring physical examination, high-risk medications, or complex new presentations typically require in-person assessment.

How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected remote prescribing in Primary Care Networks?

The COVID-19 pandemic dramatically accelerated the adoption of remote prescribing across UK Primary Care Networks. Out of necessity, practices rapidly implemented digital systems to maintain patient care while minimising infection risk. The NHS introduced temporary regulatory adjustments to facilitate this shift. Post-pandemic, many PCNs have maintained hybrid models, combining remote prescribing with traditional care. This transformation has improved access for many patients, particularly those with mobility issues or in rural areas.

What technology systems support remote prescribing in the NHS?

The NHS utilises several technology systems to facilitate safe remote prescribing. These include the Electronic Prescription Service (EPS), which allows prescriptions to be sent electronically to pharmacies; NHS App, enabling patients to request repeat prescriptions; EMIS Web and SystmOne for clinical record-keeping and prescribing; video consultation platforms like AccuRx and Attend Anywhere; and the NHS Spine, which supports secure information sharing between healthcare settings.

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