What are the latest developments with regard to allowing surgeries in Wales to email prescriptions to pharmacies?
There has been a great deal of discussion around electronic prescribing in recent months, and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for a whole system approach. This is an issue I want to see resolved quickly but importantly in a way which best meets our needs. Recently I agreed to an independent review of potential future solutions for electronic prescribing and the electronic transfer of prescriptions in Wales.
An expert review panel has been established to support the independent review which will meet for the first time in October. The outcome of the review will be discussed and assured by the new NHS Wales’ digital governance arrangements, which are being put in place.
In March advice was provided to GPs and pharmacies confirming that the NHS Wales email network is secure for the transfer of any information, including urgent prescription information, within NHS Wales.