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<p>A Serious Shortage Protocol is an additional tool to manage serious medication
shortages and may be used in the exceptional and rare situation when other measures
have been exhausted or are likely to be ineffective.</p><p>At present we are currently
working on the governance process for developing Serious Shortage Protocols, should
one be required, through engagement, including with professional bodies and patient
groups. Following this we will issue guidance to health professionals in due course.</p><p>The
Pharmaceutical Services Negotiating Committee, the organisation who represent National
Health Service community pharmacy contractors in England, have developed a briefing
note to support community pharmacies, who will need to consider training and changes
to their standard operating-procedures to take account of the potential new processes.</p><p>Any
Serious Shortage Protocol would be developed by senior, specialist doctors and pharmacists,
with input from national experts, Royal Colleges and specialist societies. If a Serious
Shortage Protocol is to be authorised then there will also be engagement with the
relevant patient groups, who can assist in informing patients. Pharmacists still have
to use their professional judgment as to whether supplying against the protocol rather
than the prescription is appropriate and provide the patient with relevant information.
If they determine supply is not appropriate, then the patient should be referred back
to their prescriber.</p>
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