The Department of Health has published a guidance document (PDF) regarding the authorisation of antiviral medicines during the H1N1 (swine) 'flu pandemic.
The document indicates that the majority of patients access antiviral medication via the National Pandemic Flu Service (0800 1 513 100 or https://www.pandemicflu.direct.gov.uk/). It is also noted that the Flu Service will refer certain cases to their own doctor, for example:
- Children under 1 year old
- People with language difficulties and those who cannot or prefer not to use the internet or telephone
- Hard-to-reach groups, looked-after children or people requiring adjustment of their treatment due to side effects
- Occasions when additional clinical judgement is required
The document also clarifies the situations where use of Antiviral Authorisation Vouchers or standard prescription forms (FP10SS) should be used to access antiviral medication and informs that the existing vouchers are being replaced. When FP10SS forms are used to access antiviral medication the right-hand side (white section) of the form should be used and endorsed 'ACP' and the green portion of the form should be voided.
Action: Any clinician who may be involved in arranging access to antiviral medication during the H1N1 pandemic should read this document to ensure that correct procedures are being followed.