Sandwell review

To ensure that discharges are appropriate, both for the patient’s well-being and that of their family and the wider community, the DNA (did not attend) policy to be revised and re-launched and compliance monitored

The practice to review their repeat prescribing protocol in respect of antidepressant prescribing to include requirements for periodic medication review to ensure that the patient receives effective treatment.

The practice to receive training on record keeping and consider implementing templates to assist in consultations for those patients with mental health needs in order to ensure effective record keeping is in place and that the patient receives appropriate care.

That, in order to improve safe practice and patient care, the Safer Sandwell Partnership asks NHS England, Birmingham, Solihull and Black Country Area Team to remind all GPs practices of the potential risks of repeat prescribing protocols, particularly for patients with mental health issues. To support and inform best practice the NHS England, Birmingham, Solihull and Black Country Area Team will also circulate the Medical Protection Society guidance “Repeat prescribing for GPs” (March 2013) to all GPs practices.

That; in order to optimise the use of agencies’ resources (notably time and money) most effectively and efficiently, whilst still achieving the purpose of the domestic homicide review; the Safer Sandwell Partnership asks the Home Office to consider the option of different approaches to the undertaking DHRs in different circumstances (cf: the new guidance in relation to children’s reviews ).