FDBE chosen to implement dm+d guide

First Databank Europe (FDBE), the specialist provider of electronic drug knowledge bases and clinical decision support systems, has been selected by NHS Connecting for Health to author the next Dictionary of Medicines and Devices (dm+d) implementation guidance.

The new guide will provide support and a reference point for all systems suppliers implementing the dm+d and will supersede previous implementation guidance published by NHS CfH.

The dictionary is the key dictionary containing unique identifiers and associated textual descriptions for medicines and medical devices. It has been developed to be used throughout the UK healthcare sector (in hospitals, primary care and in the community) as a means of identifying and recording the specific medicines or devices used in the diagnosis or treatment of patients.

Crucially, dm+d will enable interoperability between diverse clinical systems by ensuring safe and reliable exchange of information on medicines and devices, allowing effective decision support. Patients and healthcare professionals will also benefit from the provision of safer systems with fewer prescribing and dispensing errors, ensuring patient safety.

Emma Madden, programme manager at NHS CfH said: "NHS CfH has selected FDBE for its unrivalled expertise and knowledge of the implementation of drug technologies. This guidance document will provide support for systems suppliers implementing the dm+d and we hope it will encourage them to realise the benefits of consistent and standardised drug terminology."

FDBE’s Multilex Drug Data File is the UK’s most widely used drug knowledge knowledge base, supporting safer prescribing and dispensing improving patient care and safety. The knowledge base is integrated into different clinical systems used by hospitals in hospitals, community pharmacies, GP practices and other healthcare environments.

David Flavell, managing director at FDBE said of the project: "We are thrilled to have been selected by NHS CfH to prepare this guide. The standardisation of drug terminologies is crucial for the provision of accurate and targeted clinical decision support and is fundamental for the future of an increasingly joined up healthcare system. We look forward to supporting NHS CfH and its systems suppliers in this way."