1. Purpose

This policy explains how MedPlus manages medicines safely and lawfully, including prescription-only medicines (POMs) used in certain treatments (for example, botulinum toxin). It sets out our approach to prescribing, supply, storage, administration, record keeping, and patient safety.

2. Scope

This policy applies to:

all MedPlus services involving medicines (including topical/local products where relevant)

all clinicians and prescribers working for or with MedPlus (including associate clinicians)

all medicines held, supplied, stored, administered, or disposed of within MedPlus.

3. Key principles

MedPlus is committed to:

safe, evidence-based prescribing and medicines management

ensuring medicines are used only when clinically appropriate

providing patients with clear information and aftercare guidance

maintaining accurate records for traceability and safety

complying with legal and regulatory requirements relevant to medicines.

4. Prescription-only medicines and prescribing assessments

Some treatments offered by MedPlus require a prescription-only medicine (POM). POMs will only be used when:

a patient has had a suitability assessment by an appropriately qualified prescriber, and

a prescription has been issued in accordance with applicable legal and professional requirements.

Patients may be refused treatment if they are not clinically suitable, if safe consent cannot be assured, or if risks outweigh potential benefits.

5. Separation of prescribing and administration

Where a POM is used, MedPlus ensures that:

prescribing is carried out by an appropriately qualified prescriber following a consultation and suitability assessment, and

administration is performed only by appropriately trained and competent clinicians.

MedPlus will not administer a POM without a valid prescription and clear identification of the intended patient and treatment plan.

6. Remote prescribing and in-person assessment

Where remote prescribing is used (if applicable to the service), MedPlus will ensure that the prescribing assessment meets required standards for patient safety, identity verification, and consent.

Where an in-person assessment is required for safety, MedPlus will not proceed without it.

7. Supply chain and pharmacy sourcing

MedPlus sources prescription medicines via appropriate pharmacy channels to ensure authenticity and safe supply.

For treatments requiring pharmacy supply, patients should allow time for product to be obtained. As a guide, please allow up to 3 working days after the prescribing appointment for the medicine to be released and delivered to the clinic, subject to pharmacy processing and delivery timelines.

If supply is delayed, we will advise the patient and may need to reschedule the treatment appointment.

8. Suitability changes between prescribing and treatment

If a patient’s circumstances change between prescribing and administration (for example: new medical information, pregnancy/breastfeeding status, new medication, acute illness, significant mental health deterioration, or new safeguarding concerns), MedPlus may:

postpone treatment,

require re-assessment by a prescriber, and/or

decline treatment if it is no longer clinically appropriate.

9. Medicines storage, handling, and stock control

MedPlus maintains appropriate processes for:

storage in line with manufacturer requirements (including temperature control where relevant)

checking expiry dates and product integrity

preventing unauthorised access to medicines

maintaining traceability (batch/lot numbers) where relevant

ensuring appropriate infection prevention and control measures during preparation and administration.

10. Administration and patient information

Before administering any medicine, the clinician will:

confirm patient identity

confirm consent and planned treatment

confirm the medicine, dose, and intended use

provide relevant information on expected effects, risks, and aftercare

document details as required in the clinical record.

11. Adverse reactions, complications, and escalation

MedPlus takes patient safety seriously. If a patient experiences an adverse reaction or complication:

we will provide appropriate clinical advice and follow-up arrangements

we will advise urgent care/999/A&E where symptoms indicate immediate risk

incidents will be documented and reviewed under our clinical governance processes

where required, appropriate reporting will be completed.

12. Documentation and record keeping

Accurate records support safe care and product traceability. Where medicines are prescribed and/or administered, records will include (as applicable):

prescribing clinician details and date of prescribing consultation

confirmation of suitability assessment and consent

medicine name, dose, route of administration

batch/lot number and expiry date (where relevant)

treatment area(s) and technique summary (where appropriate)

aftercare advice provided and follow-up plan

any adverse reactions, complications, or patient concerns and actions taken.

13. Associate clinicians and professional accountability

MedPlus may use employed clinicians and/or associate clinicians. All clinicians involved in medicines administration must be trained, competent, and work within scope.

Where care involves a clinical act by an associate clinician, that clinician remains professionally accountable for the care they personally provide. MedPlus retains responsibility for clinical governance, including verification of appropriate registration (where applicable), competence, scope, right to work, and evidence of suitable insurance.

14. Disposal of medicines and sharps

MedPlus disposes of medicines, sharps, and clinical waste in line with appropriate waste management and infection control processes, using approved disposal routes.

15. Patient questions and transparency

Patients are welcome to ask questions about:

whether a treatment involves a prescription medicine

who will be prescribing and administering

expected benefits and risks

aftercare and what to do if problems occur.

16. Review

This policy is reviewed periodically and updated as needed.

Contact: info@medplusuk.com
Telephone: 01329722721