DH approves medicines dictionary

A new medicines dictionary has been approved by the Department of Health in an attempt to reduce the chance of medical errors by NHS staff and healthcare professionals.

The NHS dictionary of medicines and devices (dm+d) provides a common language when referring to medicines to ensure information exchanged electronically is accurate and safe.

Dr Charles Gutteridge, National Clinical Director for Informatics at the Department of Health and Medical Director, Barts and the London NHS Trust, said the dictionary will mean “clearer and consistent communication throughout the NHS”.

“I encourage all clinicians to accelerate their use of this common medical dictionary for the benefit of the patients we care for.”

The dm+d is already used within the UK for the exchange of clinical information.