EPS back in the news back on the agenda

[LeftArm]

I notice there has been a flurry of EPS related articles in the C+D over the last few days. We are being told to "embrace" and "engage".

With the latest list of PCT's getting Direction for rollout in February next year there will be more EPSr2 deployments on the way.

So how's everyone doing? Is anyone using Release1 on a day to day basis?
Does anyone on here work in a Release 2 trial or early adopter site?

[johnep]

Never saw a single EPS script during my last two years.
johnep

[cymru72]

I notice there has been a flurry of EPS related articles in the C+D over the last few days. We are being told to "embrace" and "engage".

With the latest list of PCT's getting Direction for rollout in February next year there will be more EPSr2 deployments on the way.

So how's everyone doing? Is anyone using Release1 on a day to day basis?
Does anyone on here work in a Release 2 trial or early adopter site?

I use release 1 on a day to day basis - every script with a barcode is processed this way. We use Nexphase, and it works a treat most of the time. Quicker, and with less chance of labelling errors.

Only drawback is that whatever rubbish the dr writes on the script is transferred automatically and you have to manually change it. For example, anything written in latin will stay in latin, ie. 2qds will stay as 2qds.

But on the whole, excellent!

[LeftArm]

It's reassuring to hear someone is able to make the system work well for them.
Would it be too cheaky to ask how you manage the dispensing process. Do you use the recommendations?
1,Scan a batch.
2,Pick the stock while download is completed.
3,Print and attach labels.
4,Final Check

[johnep]

Had a smart Card authorised in 3 PCT areas. Never used once except to check that it worked. Never had an EPS script.
Connecting for health did not stop the Staffordshire incident. One of Mr Blair's many expensive errors. Reckon if we had not slavishly followed his dictates, would be no crisis.
johnep

[mrmeds]

i'm suprised the whole things not been scrapped by the condems

[Pharmanaut]

i'm suprised the whole things not been scrapped by the condems

Its a good idea in principle.
Scotlands system seems to be working and the Wales 2DRX seems to be the best comprimise.
In 2DRX the prescription is coded in a 2-D barcode that can be electronically read.
However, the prescription is still paper based and can be read as normal.

[andrew paxton]

I'm a locum and I use EPS on a daily basis. If it doesn't work in a particular pharmacy, I make it work. If they get no scripts, I nag the GPs till they agree to produce them. There is no system I've used that is not improved by EPS. I've only given up on Alliance's version of NexpHase because I can't get Boots IT to take it and its problems seriously, but I'm working for them next month, so I'll try again. I haven't worked with R-2 yet, though I'm trying to get sent somewhere that does it.
The main problem is GIGO, Garbage in - Garbage out. GPs generally do not appreciate that it matters what they write on an EPS script, and, as is remarked above, continue to do iod for Omeprazole and Lansoprazole, particularly. We really do need standardised dosage codes. EMIS etc please note.

[andrew paxton]

It's reassuring to hear someone is able to make the system work well for them.
Would it be too cheaky to ask how you manage the dispensing process. Do you use the recommendations?
1,Scan a batch.
2,Pick the stock while download is completed.
3,Print and attach labels.
4,Final Check

Yes, as nearly as I can, depending on the system I'm using. Problem is, in the busier pharmacies, dispensing is done by dispensers and technicians, and with occasional exceptions, they are not interested in EPS, and resist all attempts to introduce it. Has anyone any suggestions about how to get the staff to use EPS?

[Racer]

I've been to a couple of EPS2 demos, both involving a webinar using Pharmacy Manager which is the system we've got. I think that "electronic transfer" is something of a fallacy as the pharmacies now have to print the prescriptions out rather than the surgeries so basically we get to do the doctor's secretaries jobs as well as our own.

The whole system's as big a bag of shite as I've ever seen in the 35 years I've been qualified. Hopefully it'll get canned, and if not I'll be retired before its implemented.