By Kirstye Todd, Dispex Tutor
As I start my day in the dispensary, there is that special thrill of excitement in the air… Oh joy, it’s
end-of-month submission time! Grabbing my checklist, I head to the dispensary office ready to
tackle the task with a cup of tea in hand. My checklist (and insights)…………………….
Scope assessment: First things first, I gather all the prescriptions collected over the past month.
This includes all NHS prescriptions, PA prescriptions and the vaccine claim form (FP34D appendix)
from our primary and branch surgeries. With everything I need, it’s time to get started.
Bundle inspection: With the prescriptions neatly laid out before me, I start examining each
prescription with care. From verifying endorsements to updating our endorsing lists, attention
to detail is key.
Back of Prescription Check: Flipping each prescription over, I take a moment to review the
details on the back. It’s all about the little things – making sure every signature and reason for
exemption is in place. Each incorrectly completed back of the script is worth £9.90 per item!
Claiming broken bulk: As I sift through the prescriptions, I keep an eye out for any unclaimed
items. It’s like a treasure hunt – spotting those hidden gems that need a little extra attention. With
the online drug tariff as my guide, I navigate through the process, ensuring we do not miss out on
any opportunities for reimbursement.
Prescribing oversight: Adhering to local medicines optimisation schemes is important. Any
discrepancies are noted and brought to the attention of the relevant GPs/partners.
Endorsements/Amendments: I make sure to appropriately endorse/amend items for anything
above the drug tariff price or not on the concession list. Ensure I have a GP in sight to sign any
amendments. Transparency is key, and every endorsement/amendment is a commitment to doing
things right.
Paid prescriptions review: Double-checking paid prescription figures and verifying the accuracy
of no-charge items. It is all about ensuring everything adds up. We want to make sure we are getting
paid correctly.
Returned prescriptions handling: Proper completion and resubmission of returned prescriptions
is essential.
PA prescriptions processing: Treating PA prescriptions like any other, I proceed with care. Each
one is handled with attention to detail, ensuring accuracy and compliance every step of the way.
FP34D Appendix (Vaccine claim form) management: Checking prescriptions for items to be
claimed and recording total doses, it is all about keeping things organised.
Finalisation: With everything checked and double-checked, it’s time to wrap things up.
Submission document preparation: Completing the FP34D submission document using the
compiled figures. With everything in order, it is time to move on to the next step.
Photocopies and documentation: Making photocopies of essential documents and storing them
away for safekeeping.
Packaging and posting: Bundling everything up and getting it ready for posting. With everything
packed up and ready to go, it’s time to hand it off and let it make its way to the NHSBSA.
As I seal the box and hand it over at the post office for shipping, I always feel a sense of accomplishment,
particularly if the figures are impressive!
It’s all part of the job
