Temporary approval to suspend the need for patient or patient representative signatures on prescriptions, dental and ophthalmic forms (England only)

The Secretary of State for Health and Social Care has approved a temporary measure in England to help limit the transmission of coronavirus (COVID-19) by suspending the need for patients to sign prescription, dental and ophthalmic forms for a period of 5 months to 31 March 2021.

This is to avoid cross contamination and help minimise the handling of paperwork when collecting medicines or receiving dental and eye care and must be carried out in line with the criteria set out in the guidance.

Further details of the suspension and guidance can be found on the gov.uk website.

The RPS coronavirus (COVID-19) web page is being updated regularly and has links to guidance and further information.