Allocation of ODS codes

The contractor code is a pharmacy’s unique identifying code which appears at the top of the schedule of payments document that is received from NHS Prescription Services each month. The code is officially known as the ODS code, and was previously called the OCS code, NACS code and F code.

The ODS code is now used to support a number of national NHS IT systems and disruption may be caused if the code is changed unnecessarily. In particular the following areas would be impacted following the allocation of a new contractor code:

Connectivity to NHS Services (‘End Point Registration’)
Smart Cards – smart cards will need to be updated by the PCT Registration Authority
Patient Nomination – patients and GPs will use NHS Choices, which uses contractor codes, to select a nominated pharmacy
E-Repeat Dispensing – repeat prescription messages are stored by EPS against the contractor code
NHSmail - Email addresses linked to pharmacy premises are expected to include the pharmacies ODS code

A new ODS code should only be requested when a change of ownership occurs and the contractor buys out a business on a non debts and liabilities basis (i.e. the outgoing contractor requires payment for all items dispensed up to the date of sale).

In other cases, there is no need for a new ODS code to be allocated. For example:

Change of Ownership (Contractor completely buys out another company including debts, liabilities and/or access to bank account)– resulting in a change of company name only
Contractor changes company name (e.g to a Ltd company)
Contractor relocates to new premises (change of address/temporary relocation)
Contractor changes Telephone Number
Contractor changes trading name
Or Contractor moves PCT

It is for a contractor to inform the PCT of a change and whether a new ODS code is required. The PCT will then inform NHS Prescription Services who will make the necessary changes at the PCTs request.

Back