Implementation of EPS Release 2

Four stages of PCT readiness

To help with the transition, NHS CFH has identified four stages to support progress locally in the run up to initial implementation.

Preparing for EPS Release 2 (PDF, 148.9kB) – information on the proposed stages of implementation issued by NHS CFH in November 2009.

The Stages of Implementation (PDF, 190.1kB) - the full detail of the Stages of Implementation issued by NHS CFH on 1 December 2009.

Key principles of implementation

In order for PCTs to support local implementation, a number of key principles of implementation covering the purpose and practice of implementation have been developed, in conjunction with the EPS Joint GP and Pharmacy User Group, PSNC, Local Health Community representatives and the Department of Health.

Helpful downloads and information

Implementation toolkit

The implementation toolkit provides key information and documentation to support the development of PCT policies and processes including, downloadable checklists for each required document. Please be aware that these documents were produced prior to the changes to the NHS structure.

Validation process guidance for PCTs

The guidance for dispensers and PCTs on the EPS Release 2 validation process and validation script (PDF 72Kb) explains provides a clear explanation of the validation process which is a key activity that has to be completed before a dispensing site can go live with EPS Release 2.

Business process guidance

The EPS Release 2 Business Process Guidance provides detailed information on the functionality available with EPS Release 2.

Smartcard guidance

PCT staff have access to the Integrated Identity Management and Registration Authority area of the nww website (N3 connection required, NHS staff only), and can view and download guidance, documents and contact details relating to Registration Authorities and Smartcards.

The following information can also be found on the EPS Release 2 Smartcards page of this site.

EPS prescriber Smartcard checklist for PCTs

The prescriber certificate checklist (PDF, 179.7kB) is to be used by PCT Registration Authorities to check for a duplicate or invalid certificate on your Smartcard, as part of pre go live checks for GP practice prescribers planning to upgrade to EPS Release 2. If a duplicate certificate exists it could lead to an invalid electronic signature being applied to EPS Release 2 prescriptions.

EPS Release 2 Smartcard issuance guidance for PCTs

This guidance about issuing Smartcards for access to EPS Release 2 (PDF, 56.4kB) is for RA Managers and RA Agents. The deployment of EPS Release 2 nationally requires Pharmacy staff to be issued with Smartcards to access the NHS Personal Demographics Service (PDS). To operate EPS Release 2 , staff within pharmacies and dispensing appliance contractors (DACs) in every PCT will require individual smartcards.

Supporting nomination for EPS Release 2

A nomination guidance factsheet is available to support PCTs and SHAs with the nomination process prior to nomination audit reports being available.

Example document

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 as good practice examples.

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 practice or dispensary.

Letter to patients about EPS (DOC, 33.0kB)

Letter to patients about electronic repeat dispensing (DOC, 33.0kB)

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)

Nomination policy (DOC, 144.5kB)

Stationery order form (DOC, 34.5kB)