Our Prescribing Principles

Safe prescribing is about making the right decision for every individual.

At MHWS, prescribing medication is never simply about issuing a prescription. It is about making informed clinical decisions that balance the potential benefits of treatment with Service User safety, current evidence and the individual needs of every person we care for.

Our clinicians recognise that medication can play an important role in treating many mental health and neurodevelopmental conditions. Equally, we recognise that medication is not appropriate for everyone, and prescribing should always form part of a wider treatment plan.

The principles below guide every prescribing decision made at MHWS.

Person-Centred Care

Every Service User is different.

Our clinicians consider your medical history, current health, previous treatment, personal circumstances and treatment goals before making recommendations about medication.

We believe treatment should always be tailored to the individual rather than following a standard pathway.

Evidence-Based Practice

Our clinicians combine current clinical evidence, recognised professional guidance and professional judgement when making prescribing decisions.

Evidence-based practice means considering not only published guidance, but also the individual Service User's circumstances, preferences and likely response to treatment.

As healthcare continues to evolve, our clinicians maintain their knowledge through continuing professional development, helping ensure our Service Users benefit from current best practice.

Clinical Judgement

Clinical guidelines support good healthcare, but they do not replace professional judgement.

Every prescribing decision requires consideration of the potential benefits, possible risks and the individual needs of the Service User.

For this reason, two Service Users with similar symptoms may not always receive identical treatment recommendations.

Prescribing Responsibly

Every prescription issued by MHWS is individually reviewed and authorised by a qualified UK prescriber.

Our clinicians consider a range of factors before prescribing, including:

• Whether medication is clinically appropriate
• Potential benefits and risks
• Previous response to treatment
• Existing medical conditions
• Possible interactions with other medicines
• Whether additional monitoring may be required.
• Medication is never prescribed automatically, and prescriptions are only issued where the clinician believes treatment is appropriate and in the Service User's best interests

Ongoing Responsibility

Prescribing is rarely a single event.

Where medication forms part of ongoing treatment, our responsibility continues beyond the initial prescription.

Treatment is reviewed regularly to ensure it remains safe, effective and appropriate.

Where necessary, medication may be adjusted, continued, changed or discontinued following clinical review.

Medicines Requiring Additional Monitoring

Some medicines require additional monitoring because of their clinical effects or the way they are used.

Depending on your treatment, this may include physical observations, cardiovascular monitoring, ECG, echocardiography, recognised clinical rating scales or regular clinical review appointments.

Your clinician will explain any monitoring requirements that apply to your individual treatment and discuss why they are important.

Controlled Medicines

Some medicines prescribed within mental health services are subject to additional legal controls.

Where clinically appropriate, these medicines are prescribed in accordance with UK legislation, recognised professional guidance and MHWS prescribing procedures.

Additional safeguards, monitoring or review may be required depending on the medicine prescribed and your individual clinical circumstances.

Working in Partnership

Safe prescribing depends upon partnership between Service Users and clinicians.

We encourage Service Users to:

• Provide accurate and up-to-date health information
• Tell us about any changes in their symptoms or circumstances
• Take medication as agreed with their clinician
• Attend scheduled reviews
• Complete any requested monitoring
• Discuss any concerns or side effects promptly

Working together helps ensure treatment continues to meet your needs safely over time.

Professional Standards

Our clinicians practise within their professional competence and remain accountable for every prescribing decision they make.

Prescribing is undertaken in accordance with recognised professional standards, current clinical evidence and the legal and ethical responsibilities that accompany independent prescribing.

Our aim is always to provide treatment that is safe, appropriate and centred on the individual needs of each Service User.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why isn't medication always recommended?

Medication is only one of several treatment options available. Where your clinician believes another approach is likely to be more beneficial or appropriate, this will be discussed with you.

Are prescribing decisions made by a clinician?

Yes.

Every prescription issued by MHWS is individually reviewed and authorised by a qualified UK prescriber.

Can my treatment change over time?

Yes.

Your treatment plan is reviewed regularly and may change as your symptoms, health or clinical needs change.

Why do some medicines require additional monitoring?

Some medicines require regular monitoring to help ensure they remain safe and effective.

Your clinician will explain any monitoring that is appropriate for your treatment and answer any questions you may have.