In order to ensure the safe and efficient running of Medicines Information services, it is essential that appropriate procedures and policies are in place to cover all areas of practice. There are 4 types of procedures/policies that MI services should have:

1. Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)

A Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is agreed by an organisation and specifies in writing how to perform a task, including what should be done, when, where and by whom, in order to improve consistency, support risk management and provide direction for staff. SOPs should be signed and dated by the author and approver.

2. Standard Search Pattern (SSP)

A Standard Search Pattern (SSP) is a suggested list of the best sources available to answer a particular type of enquiry and indicates an order in which they should be used.  It does not represent a definitive list of sources, and other sources should be checked as appropriate.  It does not mean that you need to check every source on it for every enquiry of a certain type.

3. User Guide

A User Guide is a document which describes the detailed steps to be taken in order to use a book, a database, or a website.  It can also be used as a training manual.  It may include useful tips for the efficient use of the resource.

4. Good Practice Document

A Good Practice Document is a descriptive document which provides recommendations or guidance on specific areas of practice to ensure consistency and attainment of standards.

Minimum list of SOPs for ALL MI services

A. SOPs produced by the CGWG, for local adaptation (under development)

B. SOPs to be produced locally