FAQ

Q. How do I suggest changes to the Red Amber List

A. All healthcare professionals in Northern Ireland are welcome to submit proposals for changes to the Red Amber List. In the first instance contact your local Interface Pharmacist Specialist Medicines to discuss the proposed change and get an overview of the process.

Q. What is the best way to keep up to date with changes to the Red Amber List?

A. You can add your email address to our mailing list by clicking here. We can then automatically email you with updates.

Q. How do I get involved with shared care guideline development or review?

A. If you wish to be involved in the review or development of shared care guidelines, contact your local Interface Pharmacist Specialist Medicines.

Q. Are there circumstances when it is appropriate to prescribe and dispense a red list medicine in primary care?

A. There may be circumstances when it is appropriate for red list medicines to be supplied in primary care. For example in the short term whilst arrangements are being put in place to transfer prescribing responsibility back to secondary care. If necessary you should seek advice from your local Interface Pharmacist Specialist Medicines or HSCB pharmacy adviser.

Q. What about private prescriptions for red or amber medicines?

A. The Red Amber list is advisory and makes recommendations on where prescribing and monitoring responsibility should lie for specialist medicines when prescribed within the NHS.
It is a decision for individual GPs whether they wish to take prescribing responsibility and prescribe any medicine (including Red or Amber medicines) on a private prescription.

Q. How do I find out if an Amber list medicine is on the Northern Ireland Local Enhanced Service for Additional monitoring of amber drugs.

A. Users within HSCNI network can click here to find details relating to the Northern Ireland Local Enhanced Service for Additional monitoring of amber drugs.

Q. Where can I find previous versions of Shared-Care Guidelines?

A. These are removed from the website. Please contact your local Interface Pharmacist Specialist Medicines if you wish to receive a copy of a withdrawn or superseded shared-care guideline.