GPs switch off ‘nuisance’ prescribing software in collective action

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By Daniel Pye

GP practices are removing and ignoring non-contractual medicines optimisation software for new prescriptions as they begin the next phase of collective action.

The British Medical Association (BMA) said the move, which began on 1 June, against the imposed GP 2026-27 contract would “put patient care ahead of cost savings”.

Medicines optimisation software is often built into GP IT systems by commissioners to cut costs, reduce waste and limit unnecessary prescribing, the union said.

But the BMA general practitioners committee for England (GPCE) said the software can recommend cheaper medications that may not be best for the patient.

Committee chair Dr Katie Bramall said: “Medicines optimisation software can be a nuisance for GPs. Its recommendations are not always in patients’ best interests and can instead reflect commissioners’ prescribing budgets.

“While this will be expensive for integrated care boards (ICBs) it will give GPs the freedom to give patients what they deem clinically appropriate with no cost to the practice.