The Advisory Council on the Misuse of Drugs (ACMD) has received a response from the UK government about the electronic prescription of Schedule 2 and Schedule 3 Controlled Drugs in secondary care and the Health and Justice System. This is a great information for medical cannabis patients from the UK.
The government’s response to the ACMD’s suggestions occured in a letter from September 29, 2023. The letter was written by the Minister of State for Crime, Policing, and Fire, Rt Hon Chris Philp MP. It has also expressed gratitude for the advice provided.
In secondary care and the Health and Justice System, the ACMD provided recommendations to the Home Office. They stated the importance of change of the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001. Accordin to them, it should allow electronic prescription of Schedule 2 and Schedule 3 controlled drugs.
UK government response
In principle, the government has approved the recommendation. It recognizes that the Health and Justice System and secondary care both require electronic prescribing. It is important to determine whether changing the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001 is the most suitable legislative instrument for implementation. That is why the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) required more discussion.
The ACMD also advises NHS England to assess the effects of the suggested changes to the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 2001 after these changes.
NHS England and DHSC are accountable for this advice. Both parties expressed their commitment to carrying out a thorough examination of the suggested modifications’ effects after they are put into effect.
Minister Chris Philp noted in his letter the value of giving serious thought to regulatory changes. He has also thanked the ACMD for their input. The government’s response is indicative of a measured strategy. It places a strong emphasis on working in tandem with the DHSC to guarantee that the legislative instrument selected is in the best interests of patients as well as the larger healthcare system.
The adoption of electronic prescribing for Schedule 2 and 3 Controlled Drugs is a huge development. It means modernization of healthcare practices and enhancement of efficiency within the UK’s healthcare systems. This crucial step is essential for fostering improvements in specific healthcare settings. Embracing electronic prescribing for these controlled substances is pivotal to advancing healthcare protocols and ensuring a streamlined approach. Electronic prescription are going to be important especially for medical cannabis patients in the UK.