Regulatory changes in 2019 mean that experienced non-medical prescribers of any professional background can become responsible for a trainee prescriber's period of learning in practice (PLP)  similarly to Designated Medical Practitioners (DMP).

To help train safe and effective independent prescribers we've worked with multi-disciplinary experts to develop and publish a competency framework for Designated Prescribing Practitioners (DPP).

This new framework will help universities running independent prescribing programmes, NHS trusts and boards with independent prescribers, trainee independent prescribers and experienced independent prescribers to understand the expectations for a DPP through standardised competency descriptors.

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Practical guide for independent prescribers

discussing prescription with patient

If you're an aspiring independent prescriber, this guidance provides practical guidance on overcoming challenges such as finding a Designated Prescribing Practitioner (DPP) and understanding the role of independent prescribers to a greater extent. 

If you're training to be an independent prescriber use this guidance as a support tool, supporting with resources to develop and build on your competencies and knowledge as a prescriber.

With an increasing role of independent prescribers in the healthcare model and NHS workforce, the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) has collaborated with the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) to produce support guidance for Pharmacist, Nurse and Midwife independent prescribers.

Can't find the help you need? Contact us for one-to-one support. We're here Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. Call 0207 572 2737 or email email.

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Sections on this page

  • About prescribing
  • How to become an IP
  • During your course
  • Support available to prescribers
  • Case studies
  • Further guidance and support
  • Acknowledgments

12 months of membership for the price of 11

We all feel like we've missed out in 2020, so we want to give you something back for 2021.

Get your 12 months of RPS membership for the price of 11, when you renew before 28 February, using annual direct debit. That’s an extra month, completely free, saving you up to £19!

Over that 12 months you'll get:

  • An exciting program of vital webinars (at least one webinar a week!)
  • Our brand new digital MEP, coming in 2021
  • All the support you need during COVID-19.

With your support, we can continue advocating for pharmacy in the coming year and supporting our members everywhere.

Renew your membership today!