GPs will see medicine shortages in real time later this year, reducing admin burden

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By Claudia Tanner

GPs will be able to see medicine shortages in real time later this year, allowing them to adjust prescriptions and prevent patients from visiting multiple pharmacies.

Dr Zubir Ahmed, under-secretary of state for health innovation and safety made the announcement at the National Pharmacy Association (NPA) winter reception at the House of Lords on 10 February.

The Pharmacist reports he said at the event: "Right now, GPs cannot see live national medicine shortages when they’re prescribing but this year, we’re going to make it possible for GPs to be aware of these shortages in real time.

"This will mean GPs can prescribe a similar antibiotic if they know that one is out of stock, and patients will no longer have to go from pharmacy for pharmacy for medicines that are simply not available."

There is no confirmation yet from the government exactly when the new system will be introduced.

Medicine shortages have become a persistent challenge affecting patient care daily. Recent data shows that one in four community pharmacy teams spend more than two hours per day sourcing alternative medicines for patients.