The budget 24/25 and spend information pages within the DiiS can be used to identify potential savings opportunities and to track progress against the financial indicators.

National Medicines Optimisation Priorities

NHSE AF DOAC 1st line choices

When initiating a DOAC for a new case of atrial fibrillation, prescribe generic apixiban.

As per the NHSE Commissioning recommendations for national procurement for direct-acting oral anticoagulant(s) (DOACs) generic apixaban offers best value treatment for atrial fibrillation.

NOTE: there is no need to change the therapy of patients currently receiving edoxaban (lixiana).

Run the SystmOne search provided to identify any patients newly initiated on DOAC therapy for atrial fibrillation and ensure that generic apixaban has been issued.

SystmOne searches: Dorset SystmOne GPs/PQS Finance 24 25/F1 Apixaban in new AF.

NHSE blood glucose and ketone testing

Ensure that when issuing blood glucose & ketone meters, testing strips and lancets, the items selected feature in the NHSE Commissioning recommendations of blood glucose and ketone meters, testing strips and lancets.

As per the NHSE recommendations, these products offer best value in diabetes management. A pan-Dorset adoption of these recommendations is estimated to save approximately £700,000 annually.

Run the SystmOne search provided to identify any patients prescribed meters, testing strips or lancets not within NHSE recommendations and change them to a suitable alternative product.

SystmOne searches: Dorset SystmOne GPs/PQS Finance 24 25/F2 NHSE blood glucose & ketone testing.

PCN – pharmaceutical company liaison. Please contact the ICB medicines optimisation team for further information on support available for patient and staff education.

NHSE commissioning recommendations: blood glucose and ketone meters, testing strips and lancets.