Contract Preparation Payments 2007-8

The Contract Preparation Payment Scheme was introduced for 2007/08 with the aim of helping contractors to prepare for implementation of the next phase of the contract.

Five specific phases were set and details were sent out in a circular issued in May 2007 (PCA(P)(2007)14).

Objective 1

Updating of patient medication records

Contractors were expected to ensure that their records were updated and contained:

·         patient's name and address including post code*;

·         patient's date of birth;

·         GP reference number or practice contact details;

·         patient's CHI number;

·         patient's last advised exemption status; and

·         carer contact details, where known.

Observance of appropriate data protection and management standards

Contractors ensured that their internal procedures were reviewed and relevant governance issues have been addressed. These included ensuring that:

·         all steps have been taken to comply with the Data Protection Act and that the NHS Board has been listed as a body to whom the data may be disclosed;

·         suitable procedures are in place for the running of system back-ups;

·         suitable procedures are in place for the archiving of non-active records; and

·         RPSGB Code of Ethics requirements in relation to patient records held in electronic format and any other relevant guidance are being followed.

Objective 2

Completion of nationally co-ordinated IT training programme

Contractors were expected to complete ePharmacy IT tool kit provided by the Community Pharmacy IM and T facilitators. Upon completion of the support pack contractors were also encouraged to ensure all staff were trained in the contents of the toolkit.

Objective 3

Observance of appropriate standards to support electronic methods of remuneration and reimbursement wherever possible

During 2007-8 the eAMS pack was also to be completed by contractors. This pack helps support the introduction of the electronic transmission of prescriptions into community pharmacies. Contractors were also encouraged to ensure all staff were trained in the contents of the toolkit.

Further training and guidance will be available during 2008 as pharmacy system suppliers provide ETP solutions.

Objective 4

Development of premises to ensure that an appropriate private advice/consultation area is available for use by patients and pharmacists

As part of the process to ensure premises were reviewed contractors were required to complete the Premises Assessment Tool (PCA (P) (2007) 28). If required the contractor was also expected to form a development plan in discussion with their NHS Board to ensure their premises met the required standard.

Objective 5Completion of relevant clinical training packs

Contractors were expected to complete the NES Pack for COPD and Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Payments for Contract Preparation Activities 2007-8

Payments for the activities outlined above were split into three phases.

The Scottish Government and Community Pharmacy Scotland also agreed to a banding arrangement providing a payment which is related to contractors' NHS activity levels on the basis of historic overall levels of remuneration during 2006-7.

All contractors received a minimum payment (Band 1) of £2970 for the work carried out. Contractors in Band 2 were paid £3812, Band 3 were paid £4665 and Band 4 were paid £5514