Formulary Management

Development of the Formulary

The Hospital Formulary was first introduced in 1992 and is now firmly established within the Trust. It incorporates a list of medicines which can be prescribed when treatment is initiated for hospital patients, local guidelines and policies.

The Formulary is reviewed and updated annually and is becoming increasingly evidence based. NICE Guidance which relates to medicines is processed and incorporated in to the Formulary. We work closely with Directorate Pharmacists and medical staff on Formulary choices and guideline development.

The local PCG also has a Formulary and we are working together to ensure consistency. We have also implemented several 'therapeutic switches' as part of a County-wide initiative to improve cost effective prescribing.

Formulary Committee

The Formulary Committee was established in 1997. It manages the introduction of new medicines and monitors medicines expenditure across the Trust. (There is a separate Drug andTherapeutics Committee).

Northamptonshire Prescribing Advisory Group

The Northamptonshire Prescribing Advisory Group advises on medicine related issues at a County level. There are pharmacy and medical representatives from the four Trusts, the six PCOs and the Health Authority. Trust Formulary issues which impact across the County are raised here.

Training

We are currently developing the Technician's role in the Formulary management process. We are also involved in training of pharmacists and technicians in Formulary related issues.

If you would like any further information, please contact Nicola Webb, Formulary Pharmacist on 01604 545696, e-mail nicola.webb@ngh.nhs.uk