Further extension to SSP012 for Estradot® 75 micrograms patches

The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has provided an update on the Serious Shortage Protocols (SSPs) for Estradot® 75 micrograms patches (SSP012).

SSP012 for Estradot® 75 micrograms patches was previously expected to expire on 4th June 2021 but the end date has been further extended to Friday 11th June 2021.

SSP012  – Estradot® 75 micrograms patches

SSP012 provides that for every Estradot® 75 microgram patch originally prescribed, either one Evorel® 75 microgram patch or one Estraderm MX® 75 microgram patch must be supplied as follows:

For prescriptions (NHS or private) requesting: Supply permitted under SSP012: Current expiry date
Estradot® 75 microgram patches Evorel® 75 microgram patches
OR
Estraderm MX® 75 microgram patches
This SSP has been varied – the revised end date for SSP012 is now Friday 11th June 2021

Please note: expiry dates of an SSP may be brought forward or extended, and the content may be amended at any time during the life of an SSP. Pharmacists should ensure they are using the latest version of an SSP before considering the supply of an alternative product.

Current versions of SSPs can be found at: www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/pharmacies-gp-practices-andappliance-contractors/serious-shortage-protocols-ssps

Also see Live SSPs

Reimbursement and remuneration

Reimbursement is for the medicine supplied in accordance with the SSP and not the originally prescribed medicine. The reimbursement price will account for VAT payment. Supply in accordance with the SSP will result in the following fees being paid to the contractor:

  • One Single Activity fee (currently £1.27)
  • One SSP fee (£5.35)

Support in implementing the SSPs

The following resources have been developed to support pharmacy teams in using these protocols.

Submission of Serious Shortage Protocol (SSP) claims using EPS tokens

PSNC’s Briefing 009/21: Serious Shortage Protocol (SSP): SSP012 – Estradot® 75 microgram patches

Current versions of SSPs

Serious Shortage Protocols Operational Guidance

Serious Shortage Protocols Questions & Answers

PSNC’s Serious Shortage Protocols (SSPs) Endorsing Factsheet

PSNC Briefing 023/19: Serious Shortage Protocols – A guide for community pharmacy teams

Background information on SSPs

Further information on what SSPs are and when they may be used is available via the links below.

Serious Shortage Protocols (SSPs) on-demand webinar

Serious Shortage Protocols (SSPs) webpage