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Preparation and training for supplementary prescribers

  • Last modified date:
    8 February 2007
Training programmes for supplementary prescribers involve at least 26 days of university tuition and 12 days of supervised practice learning.

For nurses, preparation for supplementary prescribing is based on that for independent nurse prescribing from the Nurse Prescribers' Extended Formulary. It consists of :-

  • at least 26 days taught element, of which a substantial proportion will be face-to-face contact time. Other ways of learning, such as open and distance learning formats, will also be considered;
  • an additional 12 days learning in practice with a medical prescriber;
  • self-directed study.

Independent 'Extended Formulary' nurse and midwife prescribers, who have already completed the extended formulary nurse prescribing training, will only need to 'top up' with an additional piece of learning to acquire the competencies required for supplementary prescribing. Their independent prescribing partners (ie the doctor or dentist) may also wish to attend this element of the course.

The Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain (RPSGB) and the Department of Health have worked together closely on the development of supplementary prescribing training and preparation for pharmacists, which is available here and on the RPSGB website.

In addition, the RPSGB has produced a report on Pharmacist Prescribing (March 2003), which is available on the RPSGB website.

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