This page covers the full workflow for creating a private prescription — from drug selection to submission.
Navigate to Prescriptions > New Prescription to start.
The form captures all legally required fields under the Human Medicines Regulations 2012.
Search for the patient by name or NHS number. The patient's details (name, address, DOB) will be auto-populated on the prescription.
The medication field uses SNOMED CT autocomplete:
If a medication is not found in the SNOMED search, contact your Registered Manager to have it added.
Complete the following mandatory fields:
| Field | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Strength | Drug strength per dose unit | 500mg |
| Form | Dosage form | Tablets, Capsules, Suspension, Inhaler |
| Quantity | Number of dose units | 21 |
| Dosage Instructions | Clear frequency and route | "Take one capsule three times a day for 7 days" |
| Dispensing Route | How the patient will receive the medication | Pharmacy / Patient / Postal |
Dosage must be clear and unambiguous. The following phrases should be avoided:
| Avoid | Use Instead |
|---|---|
| "As directed" | "Take one tablet twice daily" |
| "As required" | "Take one tablet when required for pain, max 4 in 24 hours" |
| "Use as needed" | "Apply one spray to each nostril twice daily" |
Search for the dispensing pharmacy by name or postcode. The system queries the AES Portal's pharmacy list covering all UK chemists. See the Pharmacy Selection guide for details.
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Save as Draft | Saves the prescription without signing — you can return to it later |
| Issue Immediately | Saves and immediately sends for AES signing |
Select Issue Immediately to proceed to AES signing (see AES Signing guide).
The system automatically enforces special prescribing rules:
See the Prescription Special Rules guide for details.