FAQ
What is N3?
N3 is the secure National network designed for pharmacists to connect to the spine in order to send and receive data in a secure environment.
How do I know this is a secure connection?
N3 is the new integrated network for the NHS and pharmacies will be required to connect to this in order to send and receive electronic prescriptions. It is a combination of broadband connections and network services that will link all NHS sites in England.
How does this benefit me?
AAH's onestopshop service can take the hassle out of having to manage all the necessary steps required in order to make the connection to N3. Our onestopshop service will provide you with the knowledge and security that we can manage this for you in one seamless end to end process.
How can I get connected to N3?
Connecting for Heath guidelines specify that this service can only be supplied by an accredited solution provider. This connection forms part of the onestopshop package offered by AAH. This service manages all the connections required in order for the pharmacist to access the EPS service. Contact us on 02476 625562 or email us at linkenquiries@aah.co.uk
How soon can I be connected?
If you choose AAH’s onestopshop service you will be connected to N3 as part of this process. Once we have arranged for your broadband to be installed together with the correct hardware, and the pharmacist has obtained their smartcard from the local PCT, we can then activate the pharmacy system allowing the pharmacy access to N3 enabling the pharmacist to begin claiming the £200 per month allowance.
Do I have to be connected to N3?
To comply with the new services specified under the New Contract, Pharmacists are obliged to undertake a connection to N3 in order to continue receiving prescriptions and dispensing drugs. Pharmacists cannot claim the monthly allowance of £200 if they are not connected.
Will this improve the dispensing process?
It has been proven at AAH’s initial implementer site, the CO-OP Pharmacy in Keighley, that by receiving scripts electronically it improves the speed at which items are dispensed. It will also mean that patients now have a wider choice as to which pharmacy they will choose to nominate in order to collect their medicines.
What other services require this connection?
The government has endeavoured to improve the number of services provided by pharmacists and in order to achieve this has introduced essential, advanced and enhanced services for which pharmacists will be remunerated accordingly.
