HIQA is currently undertaking a programme of work to set a number of health
information standards. The aim of a health information standard is to standardise
the collection and recording of health information so that it can be shared in the
most effective way possible in order to ensure a high quality, safe service.
As part of our programme of work, we are setting a National Standard for Electronic
Prescriptions and Electronic Dispensations. A National Standard for Electronic
Prescriptions and Electronic Dispensations aims to ensure reliable data exchange
between prescribing systems, dispensing community pharmacies and the wider
health information infrastructure. Our standard-setting process involves extensive
stakeholder engagements and we are now inviting individuals to participate in focus
groups. The overall aim of the focus groups is to inform the setting of the National
Standard for Electronic Prescriptions and Electronic Dispensations and to provide
insights on the content within the standard.
As a key stakeholder, we would like to invite community pharmacists to take part in
a focus group. Once you confirm your interest in taking part, a member of the
project team will make contact with you to discuss the next steps in the process.
Relevant documentation, including a participant information sheet providing further
details on the standard and the questions for consideration, will be shared with you
in advance of the focus group.
The focus group will take place online on Wednesday 10th June 2026 10:00
11:30am using Microsoft Teams. Participation is voluntary and the outputs from the
focus group will be treated confidentially.
To facilitate planning, we would be grateful if you could please reply in relation to
this matter, by emailing HIST@hiqa.ie on or before 25th May 2026.
If you would like any further information, please do not hesitate to contact us: HIST@hiqa.ie