What is Discharge Medicine Service (DMS)?

Leaving hospital can be a relief. But during your stay, there may be changes to your medication that affect your usual prescription. That’s where the NHS Discharge Medicines Service (DMS) comes in.

This free NHS service helps make your transition from hospital to home safer, smoother, and fully supported for managing your medications.

Hospital treatment can lead to changes in your medication, such as dose adjustments, new prescription, or stopping treatments that are no longer needed. These changes can be confusing, especially if you’re managing a long-term condition or taking regular repeat medication.

NHS DMS is here to help ease the transition.

With your consent, the hospital team shares essential information with your nominated pharmacy (that’s us, if you’ve chosen The Family Chemist). We then compare your hospital discharge notes with your current medication records to identify any updates, or potential concerns.

If you’re eligible, the hospital will refer you directly to the service.

Once we’re notified, our qualified pharmacists will:

• Review your medications
• Check for any changes
• Ensure everything is accurate, up to date, and safe for you to take
• Provide any support or advice you might need

If you’re eligible and happy to do so, we’ll arrange a convenient time for a confidential chat. During this call, we’ll check in on how you’re getting on with the medication, and any changes that have been made to your regular medications. Making sure you’re up to date on your prescriptions and happy with your new treatment.

If anything requires clarification or updating, we’ll handle it and make sure you feel confident and informed about your treatment plan after leaving hospital.

We may also get in touch with you to discuss your stay, answer questions about your medications, and make sure you understand and feel supported throughout the process.

The best part? DMS is fully NHS-funded, meaning it’s completely free, confidential, and focused on your wellbeing.