Making prescribing a reality: the next steps in practice

On 12 December, the Commission on Human Medicines (CHM) published the minutes from its meeting, which took place on 7 September 2017. These minutes include an endorsement of the recommendation made by the CHM ad hoc group meeting on 27 July to support the proposal for independent prescribing by paramedics. The following passage was recorded in the minutes:

‘The Commission considered and discussed feedback from the ad hoc group on the proposals for Independent Prescribing for Paramedics […] In conclusion, the Commission endorsed the ad hoc group's recommendations to support independent prescribing for paramedics.’

It is vital to understand what this news actually means for us as a profession, and for individuals who are aspirant independent prescribers. This brief comment article will look at the next phase of the project and explain the steps needed to make independent prescribing a reality for paramedics.

The recommendation made by the ad hoc group, and subsequent endorsement from the CHM, is the last major hurdle for the project in regards to influencing those who will ultimately advise government ministers on amendments to legislation. This means that we have successfully demonstrated that paramedic prescribing will be safe and appropriate, and will benefit patient care.