Can a pharmacist act as a patient representative and sign a prescription?

Yes, in this situation a representative (in this case the pharmacy) may act as an extension of the patient (with their consent). The patient should understand that if any information is incorrect then they will be liable for any penalties, not the pharmacy.

Following changes to the Terms of Service from July 2016, contractors must advise patients that where evidence is required but not provided (or if there is doubt over its appropriateness) that NHS checks are undertaken to verify exemption, and the ‘Evidence not Seen’ box should be ticked by the pharmacy.