Electronic Repeat Dispensing (eRD) is a service that allows pharmacists to dispense repeat prescriptions for a patient without the need for a new prescription from the GP each time. It is a more efficient and convenient way to manage regular prescriptions, accounting for approximately two-thirds of all items dispensed by community pharmacies.
How eRD works
The patient's GP issues a batch of prescriptions for a set period (e.g., six months) and sends them electronically to the patient's nominated pharmacy.
When the patient needs a new supply of their medication, they visit the pharmacy.
The pharmacy team checks that the patient still needs the medication and that there are no reasons they should be referred back to their GP (for example, if they're experiencing new side effects or their condition has changed).
The pharmacist then dispenses the next repeat from the batch of prescriptions held securely on the Electronic Prescription Service (EPS).
This process saves time for the patient and reduces the administrative burden on both the GP surgery and the pharmacy.
The benefits of eRD
Convenience: Patients do not have to order their prescription from the GP practice every time.
Efficiency: It streamlines the dispensing process and reduces the need for paper prescriptions.
Safety: It includes checks to ensure the medication is still appropriate for the patient.