Prescribing Under Shared Care Agreements with Private or Third-party Providers Policy
Introduction
This policy outlines the practice’s stance on prescribing medications under shared care arrangements initiated by private or third-party providers. Our primary aim is to ensure patient safety, maintain high standards of care, and manage our resources effectively.
Policy Statement
- Separation of Care:
In line with the NHS constitution, we maintain a clear separation between private and NHS care. Shared care with private providers is generally not recommended.
- Capacity and Expertise:
Due to capacity constraints, safety concerns, and the need for specialised expertise, our practice does not engage in shared care arrangements initiated by private or third-party providers.
- Clinical Responsibility:
The responsibility for prescribing and monitoring medications initiated by private or third-party providers remains with the initiating provider. Our GPs will not accept legal, financial, or ethical responsibility for medications they did not initiate.
- Communication:
We encourage direct communication between the private or third-party provider and the patient regarding medication management. Patients should be informed that their GP may not be able to prescribe certain medications.
- Exceptions:
In exceptional cases where a medication is deemed clinically necessary and falls within the GP’s expertise, the GP may consider prescribing. However, this will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
- Patient Guidance:
Patients are advised to continue receiving their medications through the private or third-party provider or explore options for transferring their care to an NHS service where shared care arrangements are in place.
Conclusion:
This policy is designed to ensure that our practice operates within its capacity and expertise while prioritising patient safety. We appreciate the understanding and cooperation of our patients and private or third-party providers in adhering to this policy.