Using EPS in the dispensary
Release 1 introduced the technical infrastructure to enable prescribers and dispensers to interact with the Electronic Prescription Service. Release 2 will provide enhanced functionality for users which will deliver tangible benefits for patients, prescribers, dispensers and their staff.
Release 1
Dispensing staff, including pharmacists, dispensing technician, counter staff and dispensing appliance contractors who want information on using EPS Release 1 should visit the background section of this website where you can find information on Release 1 implementation, how EPS Release 1 works, guidance and Release 1 communications materials.
Release 2
EPS Release 2 allows prescribers working in primary care settings to generate and transmit electronic prescriptions using their computer system.
The electronic prescription is sent to the Electronic Prescription Service, where it can then be downloaded by a dispenser who has also upgraded their computer system to use EPS.
Patients have the option to choose, or 'nominate' a dispensing contractor to receive their electronic prescription automatically – without the need for any paper.
The Electronic Prescription Service frees dispensing staff from the work associated with re-keying prescription information. As nominated electronic repeat prescriptions (both acute and repeat) may be received prior to the patient arriving, Release 2 will also give them scope to streamline their workflow by preparing medications in advance. It can also help them to manage stock control more effectively and order out-of-stock items in a timely manner.
The introduction of nomination will mean that dispensing contractors currently offering prescription collection services will no longer be required to physically collect prescriptions from GP practices for patients who have nominated them.
In order to claim payment for prescription items dispensed, dispensers currently have to sort and post large volumes of paper prescriptions to the reimbursement agency at the end of each month. Over time, dispensers will be able to manage the submission of reimbursement endorsements electronically.
This will reduce the volume of paper that needs to be sorted and posted at the end of each month.
Guidance
The EPS Business Process Guidance provides detailed information on the functionality available within EPS Release 2.
Guidance for dispensing sites and PCTs on validation which is a key activity that has to be completed before a dispensary site can go live with EPS Release 2.
DAC branding guidelines (PDF, 544.3kB) to help you apply the NHS identity within your premises and across your corporate materials.
Improved month end guidance for dispensing contractors. NHS Prescription Services have published updated, step-by-step guidance for Release 2 enabled dispensing contractors on completing the FP34 month end submission form. Release 2 enabled contractors helped develop the guidance and the RPS, PSNC and NPA members of the EPS Forum were consulted.
Example documents
These documents are examples of communication material which EPS end users have developed. Some are availabe to download as word documents so you can edit them and use them in your dispensary.
Nomination capture form (1) (DOC, 32.5kB)
Nomination capture form (2) (PDF, 1.0MB)
Nomination capture form (3) (DOC, 128.0kB)
Nomination capture form (4) (DOC, 82.0kB)
Nomination capture form (5) (PDF, 1018.1kB)
Stationery order form (DOC, 34.5kB)
e-learning
An online learning resource and e-learning is available which explains the changes that will be introduced in Release 2 of the Electronic Prescription Service and includes information on each of the EPS Release 2 prescribing and dispensing business processes.
For more information on relevant aspects of EPS follow the links below:
Connect with NHS CFH