Electronic Repeat Dispensing FAQs

If a patient has already signed up to paper-based repeat dispensing, is there a need to repeat the consent process when transferring the patient onto electronic repeat dispensing?

• No, as long as the patient wishes to use the EPS and the process has been explained.

Will patients who are currently on paper-based repeat dispensing automatically be migrated to electronic repeat dispensing when the clinical system is upgraded to EPS Release 2?

• No. Patients who are currently on a paper-based repeat dispensing regime can not be automatically transferred to electronic repeat dispensing, either when the system goes live, or when future repeats are required. Prescribers are encouraged to transfer suitable patients onto electronic repeat dispensing. In most cases the clinical system reminds them to do so.

Why are patients given a prescription token at the start of a repeat dispensing regime?

• The prescription token also acts as an 'aide memoire' for the patient if they have forgotten which pharmacy they have nominated. It also makes it easier for a patient to change their nomination part way through a repeat dispensing regime.

  If the patient finds they do not have a supply of medication (for example, if they are on holiday and forgot to take their medication with them), they can take their prescription token to any Release 2 enabled pharmacy to obtain their next repeat.

Can appliances be prescribed as part of an electronic repeat dispensing regime?

• Yes, however, currently dispensing appliance contractors are not permitted to dispense repeat dispensing prescriptions.

Can a patient change their nomination during an electronic repeat dispensing regime?

• Yes. Patients participating in electronic repeat dispensing and who have a nomination in place can change their nominated dispensary at any time.

How will a patient order their repeat prescriptions when the EPS is introduced?

• As now, arrangements for ordering repeat prescriptions are agreed locally. For example, some practices currently accept repeat prescription requests by phone, email, fax, or through online ordering systems. Others require patients to submit a paper request.

  It is up to GP practices to decide how they wish to handle requests for repeat prescriptions; it may be worth considering updating local processes.

When does an electronic repeatable prescription expire?

• As with paper based repeat dispensing, an electronic repeatable prescription has to be dispensed for the first time within six months of the date it was generated and is valid for 12 months from when it was written.