FAQ
What is ETP?
ETP is the Electronic Transfer of Prescriptions. This system will enable GP's to send an electronic prescription to a patients nominated pharmacy. A pharmacist using ETP software will be able to operate the Electronic Prescription Service, EPS.
How will this benefit the pharmacist?
This new initiative will improve efficiency providing the pharmacist with time to spend on offering new services outlined under the new contract. How will this benefit the pharmacist? This new initiative will improve efficiency providing the pharmacist with time to spend on offering new services outlined under the new contract.
Where can I get more information on a system for ETP?
AAH is offering a ‘onestopshop’ approach to customers which means AAH will manage the end-to-end process including the install and all the connections required for you to become EPS enabled. You must use an accredited system that has passed compliance testing by Connecting for Health, the Government body set up to manage this process. There are strict guidelines for system providers offering these services and it is only possible to roll-out once system providers have been accredited.
How soon can I obtain a system?
AAH is an accredited system provider with the ability to roll-out to customers across England. So far we have rolled out to a number of independent pharmacies and groups across the country. If you would like more information on AAH’s LINKEvolution dispensary management system please contact etp@aah.co.uk or contact your local AAH Business Manager.
When can I claim my allowances?
When the pharmacy contractor is able to operate the Electronic Prescription Service, if an electronic prescription is presented or requested, the pharmacy can claim £200 per month from the PCT using the appropriate claim form.
What other allowances can I claim?
All pharmacy contractors will have been paid two allowances of £1,300 making a total of £2,600. One payment in December 2005 and the second in February 2006. These allowances are linked to a pharmacy deploying Release 1 of the EPS. If the pharmacy has not deployed Release 1 of the service, the PCT will be able to reclaim these allowances from the pharmacy contractor through a deduction in the monthly schedule of payments.
Additional Payments
A further allowance of £1,000 will be paid by the end of 2007 linked to the pharmacy deploying Release 2 of the Electronic Prescription Service. If the pharmacy has not deployed Release 2 of the service (by a date as yet to be determined of which three months notice will be given), the PCT will be able to reclaim this allowance from the pharmacy contractor through a deduction via the monthly schedule of payments.
What is the aim of the new contract?
The new contractual framework for Community Pharmacy aims to: Provide clear minimum standards for community pharmacy, to meet the needs of 'Pharmacy in the Future - implementing the NHS Plan'. Provide clear and fair rewards for high quality services and promote best value for money. Harness the skills of community pharmacists and their staff, to deliver better primary and community care services to patients, by developing opportunities and rewards for integrated working. The new contract also aims to reduce bureaucracy for both Pharmacy and PCTs.
How is the New Contract framework structured?
The contract consists of three different levels of services: Essential services; Advanced services and Enhanced services. The aim is that the contract should gradually develop over time to meet the needs of patients, the NHS and the profession.
Is there an accreditation scheme for pharmacists?
Part of AAH's onestopshop service has provided information contributing towards the number of CPD (Continued Professional Development) hours pharmacists are required to complete to gain accreditation AAH has provided supporting documentation as proof that CPD hours have been carried out.
