Following the expiry of SSP06 on October 2, there is now sufficient stock of Fluoxetine 40mg capsules to meet the normal demand.
Community pharmacies have been advised to dispense the drug prescribed after October 2. Fluoxetine 40mg capsules should be supplied to the patients in accordance with the prescription, as the SSP will no longer be valid for use.
Contractors should ensure that their SSP claims are appropriately submitted to NHS Business Services Authority for reimbursement.
Pharmacy teams are advised to submit SSP claims using the EPS token if their PMR systems do not support or capture all the SSP endorsement requirements for a valid claim.
If using a token to submit SSP claims, to avoid double-claiming, contractors are reminded to mark the item covered by the SSP as ‘Not Dispensed’/’ND’ on the EPS message.
Contractors have also been advised to check that the correct number of patient charges are collected and declared on the end of month FP34C submission form.
SSPs will be accepted for up to three calendar months after expiry or withdrawal of the SSP.
NHS BSA advises that contractor SSP claims should be clear and unambiguous and follow the protocol guidelines – NHS BSA processing staff must be able to determine what has been supplied.
Pharmacy contractors should keep a record of all SSP claims and reconcile when their Schedule of Payments are sent.
Cat Smith, Labour MP for Lancaster and Wyre