script signing

[jayde-89]

hi
A similar issue when you do repeat prescriptions which are then delievered to patients how do you get the patients to sign there prescriptions each month?

this one isnt to bad as the delivery driver can just take the patients script with them

[dizzyb23]

I've been given the same info.....as in "make sure all scripts are signed blah blah blah". They are trying to get the resubs numbers down as they expect you to check all endorsing etc at the same time as checking the backs of scripts to prevent switching.

Don't think there is an easy answer to this. I spend some time each month checking, endorsing and filing scripts and i'm sure i'm not alone doing this. The result is zero resubs and switches most months.

I have been on the PPA website many times for info. It's helped a bit. Just do what you can to keep your switches down and that's really all you can do. No one can have a go at ya for trying!!!!! Can they?????

[LeftArm]

You should never have to sign a script where you are unsure of the exemption.
The company should use the PMR to record the exemption certificate number and expiry date. I would be happy to sign if this information is available. It is then a case of keeping the information up to date but this could be arranged with the home.

[sam12]

the only issue with getting patients to sign on delieveries is some times there are to many deliveries how can one driver deliever get prescriptions signed by patients with in a limited contracted hours ,it places to much burden on one person?

[Defblade]

does anyone have any information or evidence stating that this is fraud and that we should not be signing this scripts i want something in blackk and white that i can present to my manager and pharmacist on this matter ~
many thanks

Read the back of the script (repeat form side). It's all on there, including the number of the Counter Fraud Office. It may also be on the PSNC script charge poster, on FP57 receipts, and on loads of NHS advertising you might have kicking around or stuck on the walls.

I would respectfully suggest to your manager and pharmacist tjhat if they want scripts signed without information or proof, they do it themsleves.

Otherwise, ask that they put their requirement to you in writing.

Then bump it to HR as a complaint. Then bump it to the Counter Fraud guys. Then Employment Tribunal.

Remember they are asking you to break the law and rsik the penalties because they are too lazy to do the job right.

[Batfink]

This can be a problem, particularly as care home staff aren't interested and don't understand the implications ("He just dosen't pay!!!" has been shouted at me many a time over the phone). What I have dome in the past is ask homes to provide a copy of the patient's proof of exemption e.g. benefits book, medical exemption, prepayment cert etc. We would then tick the relevant box and sign. I would never give my own home address but instead use the pharmacy stamp so it was clear that a member of staff had signed on behalf of the patient. It is easy to put a reminder on the PMR to inducate when the relevant exemption would run out and so the care home can be reminded. I found this worked better than sending Rxs back for signatures as you would run the risk of not getting scripts back or driver not finding anyone to sign them.