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EPS Release 2 smartcards

A Registration Authority is the governance framework within which NHS organisations can register individuals as users of the NHS Care Records Service and other services - maintaining the confidentiality and security of patient information at all times. Registration is the process by which users of Smartcard-enabled IT applications are authenticated (proven who they are beyond reasonable doubt) and authorised (enabled to have particular levels of access to particular patient data). Smartcards are a critical aspect of EPS Release 2.

Which members of dispensing staff need a Smartcard?

All members of staff who use with the local dispensing clinical system will require a Smartcard. This includes staff who play a role with the dispensing of prescriptions and those who may only process patient nomination requests.

Examples could include:

  • Pharmacists and locum pharmacists
  • Accredited dispensing technicians
  • Counter assistants and pharmacy support staff, such users may need a Smartcard depending on local business processes.

How to apply for a Smartcard

Firstly, if you already have a Smartcard to use with EPS Release 1 you do not need another one, but the user role Profile on the card will need updating. See Migration of community pharmacy users from Release 1 to Release 2. (PDF, 464.4kB)

RA clarification: The scope of the above document excludes Smartcard requirements for the Personal Demographic Service (PDS). In order to manage patient nominations, many EPS users will additionally need the B0825 activity granted within their User Role Profile.

To apply for a Smartcard you need to be 'sponsored'. The Pharmaceutical Services Negotiating Committee (PSNC) has recommended a representative from each pharmacy should be appointed as the sponsor for pharmacy staff. The same model will apply for EPS Release 2 users in other dispensing care settings. If this appointed sponsor does not already have a Smartcard then he/she will need to be sponsored by someone outside the organisation. PCT Registration Authority Managers have been advised to consult with local pharmacy representatives to propose individuals who could act as sponsors.

Once your sponsor has been identified you can apply for a card which will require a face-to-face meeting with your PCT Registration Authority. They may send you an 'RA01' form to be completed by you and your sponsor, or they may be using the paperless User Identity Manager (UIM) system for which the required information is entered online.

What level of access do I need?

Access control for the EPS Release 2 has been divided across three functions.

  • Process patient nomination requests - To update or remove a patient nomination a user needs read/ write access to the national Personal Demographic Service (PDS). [RA/Sponsor Info: B0825 Manage Patient Demographics]
  • Prescription receipt, dispensing, labelling and issue of medication - The day-to-day functions undertaken during the prescription dispensing process. [RA/Sponsor Info: B0401 View Patient Medication + B0570 Perform Pharmacy Activities]
  • Prescription endorsing and reimbursement processes - Managing the financial aspects of the prescription dispensing process. [RA/Sponsor Info: B0572 Manage Pharmacy Activities]

Many users, including probably all pharmacists, will be granted the access control to perform all three functions above.

Additional information, guidance and references