Competency framework for prescribing supervisors

Published: 19 March 2019 Ezine

On behalf of all prescribing professions, the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) will be developing a competency framework for prescribing supervisors (those taking on a practice supervisor/assessor role) for non-medical prescribing trainees.

As the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) and the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) have
allowed experienced independent prescribers from any professional background to take on the role, rather than restricting it to designated medical practitioners, radiographers and other allied health professionals are waiting to see whether the HCPC will adopt the same approach.

The consultation is closed, and we are awaiting the outcome.

The framework will ensure training in the practice environment is underpinned by appropriate education and support.

It will be an extension of the current Prescribing Competency Framework and will guide education providers and those taking on the role of practice supervisor/assessor.

It will provide a robust framework to ensure prescribing supervisors are active, experienced and skilled with the necessary experience, education and training skills to act in this role.

As with the Prescribing Competency Framework, this work is multi-professional involving all prescribing professions.

Hazel Boyce, review radiographer from the Bristol Cancer Institute, has been invited to be a member of the steering group. She is a radiographer independent prescriber and previous member of the steering group for the Prescribing Competency Framework.

Hazel has already contributed to the first meeting, with work continuing on the framework. Completion is due by the end of the year.

Whatever the outcome of the HCPC consultation, this document will be relevant to all as it will apply to both medical and non-medical independent prescribers acting as prescribing supervisors/assessors.

If you have any comments you would like to pass on; please email: [email protected]