By Kirstye Todd- Dispex Consultant
With the March 31st DSQS deadline less than 6 months away, now is the time to focus on re-audits. By now you have already completed your annual audit and made improvements, the re-audit is your chance to show how those changes have worked. It’s more than a box to tick-it is a way to prove your dispensary’s commitment to better care and smarter ways of working.
Why Re-Audits matter.
A re-audit lets you measure progress. It’s about showing that you don’t just spot issues-you act on them and improve. For DSQS, it’s also about demonstrating that your practice is meeting high standards, which is key to securing that all-important funding.
But it’s more than just meeting a requirement. A good re-audit shows your team that their hard work is making a difference and builds confidence in the way you are all working together.
How to approach your Re-Audit.
Start by looking back at your original audit. What problems did you find, and what did you decide to do about them? Maybe you introduced extra training after spotting frequent dispensing errors or added new steps to your workflow to make things more efficient.
Now, think about how you will check whether those changes worked. Have the errors reduced? Are processes running more smoothly? Are staff feeling more confident?
For example, if your audit showed problems with repeat prescriptions being delayed, your re-audit might look at whether the new system for managing requests has reduced those delays. The re-audit is your chance to see if you are on the right track and adjust things if you’re not.
Celebrate success.
If your re-audit shows improvements, take the time to share the results with your team. Let them know their hard work is paying off. Maybe errors have dropped, workflows are quicker, or patients are happier. Whatever the outcome, it is worth celebrating. If things have not gone as planned, that’s okay too! A re-audit is about learning. Maybe the changes need more time, or you might need to try a different approach. The key is to use what you have learned to keep moving forward.
Telling your story.
When it comes to submitting your DSQS evidence, think of your re-audit as a story. Show where you started, what you did, and how things have improved.
For example:
“Our original audit found frequent delays in processing repeat prescriptions. After extra training for our team on our new scanner systems and reorganising our workflow, the re-audit showed a 50% reduction in delays, with requests now processed within 48 hours. This has made a significant difference for both our team and our patients.”
By keeping your results simple and clear, you will make it easy to show the progress you have made.
Keep it simple.
Re-audits don’t need to feel overwhelming. They are just a way to check that the changes you have made are working. Take it one step at a time, involve your team, and focus on the difference those changes have made.
Remember, DSQS isn’t just about meeting a deadline or securing funding, it’s about making your dispensary a better, safer place for patients and your team. With a good re-audit, you can show that your team is improving and that you are all committed to delivering great care.
There’s still time to get your re-audit done and ready for submission. Take a look back, measure your progress, and share the story of what your dispensary has achieved!
