Several factors may prevent the successful completion of an electronic prescription in EMIS Web. Here’s a quick rundown of common issues and possible solutions:
User Access & Authorisation
Smart Card Log-In: You must log in using your NHS Smart Card to access the prescribing functionality fully. This is crucial as the prescription process requires electronic signatures authorised via the Smart Card. If not logged in correctly, your prescriptions won't send.
Patient Data Synchronisation
Personal Demographics Service (PDS): Always check the PDS status. A red status indicates discrepancies between the patient’s details in EMIS Web and those on the Spine, which must be resolved to proceed with electronic prescriptions.
Authorising Clinician
User Profile Configurations: Ensure the stamp doctor's user profile is correctly configured and that their login is current. If the authorised clinician has left the practice or is inactive, reauthorise prescriptions under a current clinician's name.
Medication Coding
NHS Dictionary of Medicines and Devices: Only medicines with a valid dm+d code can be processed electronically. Without this, prescriptions revert to a standard FP10s, unable to be sent electronically.
This system saves admin time by reducing paper handling and minimising errors associated with manual processes.
Device & Role Configuration
Ensure Proper Set-Up: Double-check that all device settings and user roles are configured correctly, as incorrect settings can hinder the electronic sending of prescriptions. For example, if you select a ‘usual doctor’ as a fallback signer, ensure medication has been reauthorised correctly.
By addressing these common issues, EMIS Web users can ensure a smoother, more efficient prescribing process, thus ensuring patients receive their medication on time and with minimal disruption. This not only supports practice efficiency but also enhances patient service quality.
