Electronic prescriptions | NHSBSA (2024)

FAQs

Can I go to any pharmacy with an electronic prescription? ›

Yes. Your electronic prescription will be seen by the same people in GP practices, pharmacies and NHS prescription payment and fraud agencies that see your paper prescription now. Sometimes dispensers may see that you have nominated another dispenser.

Electronic prescribing (e-prescribing) refers to a process by which prescription information is created electronically, transferred via electronic means, and dispensed electronically. This process replaces entirely the use of a paper prescription.

EPS allows prescribers to send prescriptions electronically to a dispenser (such as a pharmacy) of the patient's choice. This makes the prescribing and dispensing process more efficient and convenient for patients and staff.

When the prescriber enters the prescription into the e-prescribing application, the prescription is transmitted to the pharmacy and may be entered into the patient's medical record and integrated with the office billing system if these systems are linked electronically.

Collecting the prescription

Most prescriptions are sent electronically, direct to a pharmacy from the GP surgery. The person who the prescription is for can choose which pharmacy it goes to. When you go to the pharmacy to collect the medicine, you'll need to confirm who you're collecting it for.

The link has a unique QR code, known as a digital 'token' — this token is your prescription to take to a pharmacy. Your token will get scanned by the pharmacist, so they can access your prescription and give you your medicine. You will receive one token for each medicine you are prescribed.

Typically, it takes up to 48 hours for an NHS prescription to be ready to be collected, but this can vary from one practice to another. If you have ordered a repeat prescription via the NHS app or through your NHS GP, then allow 2-3 working days for it to be sent to the pharmacy of your choice.

If your GP issues eScripts, ask for an eScript, and they'll send a unique QR barcode (known as a 'token') to your mobile phone. Simply email that to your preferred pharmacy to have your script ready in advance, or show it on your phone when you go in to the pharmacy to have your script made up.

The longest delay in an e-prescription reaching the pharmacy is the time from when the practitioner says that it is being sent to when it is actually sent. Most of the time, it is the office staff that actually does the sending after being told to do so by the prescriber.

How long does it take for a prescription to go through electronically? ›

Prescriptions normally take a few hours to process. Please make sure you check your app for any updates about your prescription. Please note, patients who request a specific pharmacy may have to wait up to 48 hours for prescriptions to be ready to collect.

A California law has gone into effect as of the first of the year that requires prescriptions in most circ*mstances to be submitted electronically. This law includes prescriptions both for controlled substances and legend drugs.

The Electronic prescription service (EPS) allows prescribers to send prescriptions electronically to a dispenser (such as a community pharmacy) of the patient's choice.

The electronic prescription must contain all legally required information for a valid prescription (e.g. Patient Name, Medication Name, Directions, Quantity, Refills, Provider, etc.)

In this case, you should check with the pharmacy you've chosen how long it'll take them to have your prescription ready for collection. If you already have your prescription, this can be taken to any community pharmacy you choose. You'll have to wait for it to be dispensed or you can return later to pick it up.

You will need to provide the full details of the new pharmacy, such as its name and address. Then, they can access your medical records and send the prescription to them.