RE: Key Points
From Today's Meeting
Dear Member,
Many thanks to the members that joined us today for our "To The Point" session on PIP Codes.
The meeting was hosted by Hiten Patel with representation from the NPA -
Gareth Jones & Nat Floyde.
We are unable to share a recording of this session due to privacy issues. The
following key points / questions where discussed.
Please see an infographic slide attached with the
email.
1. What are PIP codes?
The PIP Code is a unique code allocated to a specific product, along with the
description associated to and describing that product. Other codes exist such as DM&D Snomed codes however these do not cover all non prescription products. The PIP code is needed for manufacturers, wholesalers , System providers , EPOS systems, PMRs and pharmacies to operate effectively. Each entity/system is required to purchase a User Licence to use the PIP code. This includes community pharmacies as they are a user of the pip code.
2. Who owns PIP codes?
There are two complementary components to PIP Code
ownership.
The NPA has the exclusive right to license the
Code User Rights – the right to apply the PIP Code to products (‘Code User Rights’).
The right to publish the PIP Code is held solely by Pharma Intelligence UK Ltd (Also known as C&D) – the right to publish PIP Code Data, and the right to incorporate the PIP Code into price lists, order forms and systems.
3. Why do we need to pay to use them?
Like all products & services members use the owner has rights control use
and charge as appropriate.
The NPA includes use for their
part in their membership fee. Non Members should contact the NPA re charges.
Pharma Intelligence UK Ltd /C&D - All UK pharmacies must have an active C+D subscription. Details can be found on the following website: https://pharmaintelligence.informa.com/c-and-d-subscribe
4. PMR systems & wholesalers already pay the fee - so why do
community pharmacy owners also need to pay?
Each user
needs to pay to use the PIP codes. Think of it like software licenses from companies such as MicroSoft. Every user needs to subscribe to use excel etc.
5. What happens if pharmacy owners don’t pay.
Pharma Intelligence UK Ltd and the NPA may take legal action against
organisations or individuals which use the PIP code without having obtained the relevant licence.
Please email us on info@pharmaplusltd.co.uk if you have any inquiries relating to this.
Regards,
PharmaPlus
