Independent prescribing: a journey to provide the best possible care

Paramedics have had a long relationship with medicines, which dates back over two decades, and they are personally and professionally responsible for ensuring that they adhere to standards set by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) (2013) and the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) (2014), regarding the use of patient group directions (PGDs), patient specific directions (PSDs) and exemptions.

Many patients benefit, and will continue to benefit, as a result of paramedics being able to administer medicines using these mechanisms. It is not uncommon, however, for these mechanisms to prove ineffective. This can result in delays for patients receiving the care that is best suited to their individual needs. Independent prescribing by paramedics would allow patients to receive the care and medicines they need, resulting in a far greater number of patients benefiting from improved and more timely care and greater convenience.