Seven Day Prescription Requests

This is a common query at the office. Many pharmacies will offer a blister pack system for medications which is very helpful for residential homes and patients who struggle to remember regular medications.

The pharmacists invest time into this and there has been a temptation to ask the GP to do four seven day prescriptions per month. This allows additional funds to be earned to cover the pharmacist costs.

It is our view that this is an incorrect funding stream and some people within the Health Service would view at as fraudulent. Our advice is to think about what is best for your patient.

Your pharmacist has a duty to consider the patient's need and supply medication appropriately.

Here is a very helpful document prepared by a PCT in Yorkshire's Pharmacy team which explains why it is unnecessary to do seven day prescriptions in most cases.

(With thanks to Graham Hill)

Support for Patients Managing their medications and Seven Day Prescription requests

FS Dec 09