What the GMC Guidance Says

Where is it in the guidance?

In the section Keeping up to date and ensuring safe prescribing. Paragraph 13 reads in full: “You should follow the advice in the BNF on prescription writing and make sure your prescriptions and orders are clear, in accordance with the relevant statutory requirements. You should also make sure you include your name legibly. As well, you should consider including clinical indications on your prescriptions.” A footnote to the words “clinical indications” links to this website.

When did it come into effect?

The guidance was published on 18 February 2021 and came into effect on 5 April 2021. The GMC updated it on 15 March 2022 and again on 13 December 2024.

Did earlier guidance say the same?

Yes. The GMC’s 2013 guidance, Good practice in prescribing and managing medicines and devices, also advised prescribers to consider adding clinical indications to their prescriptions.

Where can I read it?

Keeping up to date and ensuring safe prescribing on the GMC website, or the whole guidance as a PDF.

How do I start?

See what a clinical indication is, the FAQs on getting started, and the Sample Directory for suggested wording.