In the survey of 475 medical members, which focused on remote prescribing, the MDU found that an overwhelming majority (93%) believe that remote prescribing will continue post-pandemic, and that the majority (55%) do feel confident in prescribing remotely, as opposed to 18% who do not.
The MDU also found that the issues members were most concerned about when prescribing remotely were:
- ensuring a patient has a safe and confidential place to access healthcare remotely (37%)
- prescribing for people who need additional monitoring (36%)
- an adverse event (27%).
Dr Edward Farnan, medico-legal adviser at the MDU said,
"As consultations moved online during the pandemic, doctors have become even more adept at assessing patients virtually. Prescribing remotely can be a convenient, safe and reasonable option, so long as the prescribing doctor has the necessary information, is able to make a satisfactory assessment and can converse with the patient in an appropriate manner."
The survey was held as part of the MDU's 'GMC's prescribing guidance' webinar, which focused on topics including:
- the GMC's new guidance and how this impacts day to day practice
- medico-legal factors to consider when prescribing remotely
- the pitfalls of shared care, unlicensed medication and self-prescribing.
Available for a limited time only, medical professionals can watch the webinar on-demand here.
The MDU surveyed 475 members in May 2021, a 70.47% response rate.
This page was correct at publication on 01/06/2021. Any guidance is intended as general guidance for members only. If you are a member and need specific advice relating to your own circumstances, please contact one of our advisers.