A patient on a private consultation needs a prescription before they fly tomorrow morning. NHS EPS isn't available for private prescriptions; the pharmacy wants something they can dispense from.
A properly prepared PDF prescription is acceptable to most private pharmacies.
Required content
Prescriber's name, qualifications, GMC or equivalent registration number, practice address. Patient's name, date of birth, address. Date of prescription. Drug name (preferably generic), dose, frequency, and quantity. Any specific instructions. Prescriber's signature. For controlled drugs, additional specific requirements apply — check current MHRA guidance.
Building the PDF
Use a maintained Word template with your practice letterhead and prescriber details. Customise patient details and the medication. Convert to PDF for delivery. Don't issue prescriptions from a non-template document — pharmacies look for consistent formatting that matches a known practice.
Signing
For most non-controlled medications, an electronic signature via sign PDF is accepted by private pharmacies. The audit trail authenticates the prescription. For controlled drugs, follow the specific legal requirements in your jurisdiction — some still require wet ink for Schedule 2 and 3 drugs.
Delivery
Email the signed PDF to the patient or directly to the dispensing pharmacy. Password-protect if sending via email — patient identifiers and medical information are sensitive. Most pharmacies have a known email for receiving private prescriptions; sending direct is faster than via the patient.
FAQ
Can a PDF prescription be used for controlled drugs?
Schedule 4 and 5 generally yes. Schedule 2 and 3 may require wet ink — check current rules and the specific pharmacy's policy.
Will UK pharmacies accept e-signed private prescriptions?
Most do for non-controlled medications. Call ahead the first time to confirm the pharmacy's acceptance policy.
How long is a private prescription valid?
Six months from the date of prescription for non-controlled drugs. Twenty-eight days for Schedule 2 and 3 controlled drugs.
Should I retain a copy?
Yes — store the signed PDF in the patient's record. Standard retention rules apply.
A clean PDF prescription gets the patient on the flight. Sign in Flint and the pharmacy dispenses without phone calls.