Job Description

The following are the core responsibilities of the Dispensing Assistant. There may be, on occasion, a requirement to carry out other tasks; this will be dependent upon factors such as workload and staffing levels: 1. Prescription Processing: Process prescriptions as authorised by GPs and prescribing nurses, ensuring accuracy and compliance with good practice guidelines. Check all dispensed medicines against prescriptions, addressing any uncertainties with the authorising doctor.

2. Handling Prescription Charges and Documentation:

Collect prescription charges and ensure the FP10 form is completed and signed by the patient. Securely manage any monies received on behalf of the practice. Ensure prescription forms are appropriately endorsed, collated, and forwarded to the NHS Prescription Services (PPA) along with necessary paperwork, such as FP34D forms and invoices.

3. Stock and Inventory Management:

Maintain efficient stock control, ensuring consistent availability of medicines while minimising wastage from expired stock. Store medications properly, ensuring compliance with storage instructions, including maintaining the cold chain for refrigerated items. 4.

Controlled Drugs and Dispensing Safety:

Dispense controlled drugs in line with practice policies, ensuring legal compliance. Safely dispose of expired or returned medicines, following regulations. 5. Hygiene and Equipment Maintenance: Ensure all work surfaces, shelves, and dispensary equipment are regularly cleaned and kept in good working order.



Act promptly on any drug alert bulletins received from regulatory bodies. 6. Patient Interaction and Communication: Ensure patients receive their prescribed medications accurately and in a timely manner. Process prescription requests received via email, face-to-face, and online platforms.



Communicate effectively with other team members, patients, and carers, recognising the need for alternative communication methods when necessary 7. Administrative Support Forward all invoices and relevant dispensary-related correspondence to the Practice Manager in a timely manner. Assist the Dispensary Manager with monthly returns and other administrative tasks as needed. Maintain full and accurate records of all dispensing transactions, using computers where appropriate.

8. Compliance and Confidentiality:

Uphold patient confidentiality at all times, ensuring sensitive information is only shared with authorised personnel, in line with practice policies and GDPR. Handle confidential information about patients, carers, and the practices business with the utmost discretion. 9.

Health & Safety:

Ensure a safe working environment by adhering to infection control procedures and reporting potential hazards. Use personal security systems in the workplace as per practice guidelines and contribute to maintaining the health and safety of yourself and colleagues. 10. Personal and Professional Development: Participate in any training provided by the practice and take responsibility for maintaining your own professional development.



Engage in annual performance reviews and demonstrate skills and knowledge to colleagues where appropriate. 11. Time Management and Workload Efficiency: Manage time, workload, and resources effectively to ensure efficient service delivery. Collaborate with team members and external agencies to meet patient needs and maintain a high standard of care.