Electronic Prescribing (ePMA)

We are preparing to introduce an exciting new digital system for prescribing and administering medication called electronic Prescribing and Medicines Administration (ePMA).

ePMA is a key part of the Digital Medicines Transformation Portfolio which aims to make the prescribing, dispensing and administration of medicines everywhere in Wales easier, safer, more efficient and effective, for both patients and clinicians.

What is electronic prescribing and medicines administration (ePMA)? 

ePMA is a digital system that will replace paper drug charts. The new system will allow healthcare professionals to electronically prescribe and administer medicines. 

Replacing paper charts with electronic devices makes the prescribing, and administration process safer and easier for both patients and staff. 

Alongside improving patient safety, ePMA will reduce waste and improve the efficiency of care that we provide across our Health Board sites. 

Who has developed the system? 

There is a multidisciplinary team, including pharmacists, nurses, doctors and digital staff  all involved in the design and planning of the system to ensure it works for all users.  

We’ve worked with an external software provider, Nervecentre to develop the software. 

Nervecentre’s ePMA software is also being utilised by other NHS organisations, including Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board (CTM UHB), University Hospitals of Leicester and Nottingham University Hospitals. 

Will this change how my care is delivered? 

You will see hospital staff using digital devices instead of paper charts when delivering you care but your care and experience in the ward should be unaffected.  

Remember you can ask staff on the ward if you have any questions about ePMA 

How will I know whether ePMA is live on my ward? 

You’ll see hospital staff using digital devices, such as phones, laptops and iPads.  

You might also spot yellow posters with ePMA information on walls around your ward, or you might be offered a leaflet with more information. 

You are encouraged to ask staff on the ward about ePMA.  

Why doesn’t the ward I'm on have ePMA yet? 

The roll out is gradual and requires updated technology, training of staff, and the correct IT (software and digital devices) =- this means some wards will come online before others. 

A step by step roll out helps ensure we can manage progress, learn lessons and identify best practice as we move forward. 

What technology is involved? 

We will be supplying wards with new digital devices to deliver ePMA.  

This includes mobile phones, laptops, computers and iPads. 

We are working closely with clinical, and IT colleagues to make sure we have the most appropriate equipment for each location on an individual basis and will be taking the needs of the service, the staff and the patients into account. 

Is my information secure?  

 The software uses the latest technology and is in line with strong information security policies in place across NHS Wales.   

More info requested here from Pharmacy team for this q.  

The ePMA system has been reviewed by our Cyber Security and Information Governance teams to ensure information is as safe as possible. 

What happens if the system goes down? 

We have back up processes in place in case of errors with the system. Patient safety is our priority. Specific devices are ensuring that information is securely backed up so that staff can access drug charts no matter the situation. 

What if I'm transferred from a different ward or hospital without electronic prescribing? 

Policies are in place to protect our patients in these different scenarios. 

If you’re switched from a ward or hospital without electronic prescribing, then a printed chart will be produced and your records updated accordingly. 

Why are we implementing ePMA? 

There are lots of benefits to having an effective ePMA system in place, including: 

• ePMA will provide clinicians with more time to deliver safer and more efficient care to patients 

• ePMA will allow prescribing from remote terminals across our sites as well as on wards at patient bedsides 

• Data from ePMA provides “a robust audit trail” - there is a clear digital record for the prescription and administration process. Protecting both staff and patients 

• ePMA will help ensure information is accurate, up-to-date, and readily available to support clinical decision-making, and ultimately improve patient care.​​​​ 

• Data within the app can be useful for clinicians, supporting decision making and prompting staff when doses are due or overdue 

• ePMA includes allergy and drug interaction checking, which will reduce medication errors.