Abstract/Summary

An updated Competency Framework for all Prescribers was published in July 2016 and has been widely promoted as an effective tool for supporting prescribing practice. It can support practitioners to develop their practice and to demonstrate they are competent. However, for some, using it in practice remains a daunting task. In this article, the history and role of competency frameworks will be explored, detailing the background to the concept of competence in the NHS and how it has been described. The development of the competency framework for prescribing will be explored and examples given of how the updated Competency Framework for all Prescribers can be used in practice. Its use by all prescribers in all settings will be illustrated, to support current and future prescribers to develop their practice.