Phase 4 of EPS allows prescriptions to be signed, sent and processed electronically without a pharmacy nomination.
The rollout of phase 4 has made EPS the default method for prescribing, dispensing and reimbursement of prescriptions in primary care in England.
Paper prescriptions will still be available in special circumstances but almost all prescriptions will be processed electronically.
Dispensing a Phase 4 prescription
You should scan the unique barcode or enter the barcode number to retrieve the prescription from the NHS Spine. The barcode will be on the Phase 4 token.
Read more information on dispensing a Phase 4 prescription on NHS Digital website
Existing nominations
All existing EPS nominations will remain valid.
Further nominations for appropriate patients should be encouraged and set if consent from the patient is given.
If a patient has an existing nomination, they can be given a Phase 4 prescription.
This may be done when a patient requires an urgent prescription, and their usual pharmacy is closed.
They'll be issued with a phase 4 token to take to an alternative pharmacy.