An evaluation of the scope and practice of Non- Medical Prescribing in the North West
The North West has the highest level of active prescribers compared with other regions in England but until now the multi-professional collaborative approach within NHS North West has not been the subject of in depth study. This evaluation is the first regional study to examine the integration of the non-medical prescribing role of non-medical prescribers in practice. The three stage evaluation comprised focus groups of non-medical prescribing leads and two regional surveys; a survey of 600 non-medical prescribers described the role, inter-professional relations and support needs. It also captured patient safety impact, good practice and communication value of the role. Seventy medical practitioners surveyed added stakeholder perspectives on their experience and the structures supporting this important initiative. Overall the findings suggest that non-medical prescribing is sustainable and has enhanced the service. .
