Trusts across the South East are being encouraged to sign up to a new pilot programme that could transform the way annual reviews are carried out for patients prescribed valproate — while delivering significant savings and efficiency gains.

Valproate is a vital medication for many patients, including those managing epilepsy and bipolar disorder. But because of the risks it carries, annual reviews are mandated by MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency) to ensure patients receive the right information, support and clinical oversight.

Until now, these reviews have relied on paper forms — a process that is time‑consuming, difficult to track, and resource‑intensive. The new digital solution, launching soon, will replace paper with a streamlined system that includes:

• A real‑time patient register
• Digital Annual Risk Acknowledgement Forms (ARAFs) with electronic signatures
• Automated call and recall prompts for reviews
• Dashboards showing outstanding reviews and MHRA‑regulated questions

Why trusts should get involved

Analysis by the South East Data & Analytics team shows the pilot could deliver both clinical and financial benefits:

• Emergency admissions avoided: Potential annual savings of over £13 million across the region by reducing seizure‑related admissions.
• Reduced ambulance and A&E costs: Avoidance of recurrent unmanaged seizures could save £4.3 million per year.
• Safeguarding outcomes: Preventing pregnancies exposed to valproate could save between £2,000 and £750,000 per child over 10 years, depending on severity of conditions.
• Efficiency gains: Less administrative burden, faster turnaround for second signatures, and improved compliance free up clinical time and reduce reliance on agency staff.

Dr Christopher Tibbs, Medical Director for NHS South East, said: “This pilot is about combining patient safety with smarter use of NHS resources. By moving away from paper, we can reduce administrative burden, improve oversight, and ensure patients prescribed valproate receive consistent, timely reviews. The cost-benefit analysis demonstrates that this initiative enhances safety while ensuring financial sustainability, thereby providing significant benefits to patients, staff, and the wider NHS.

Next steps – Be part of the digital future

Launch coming soon: Our new digital platform is set to go live early in the new year

Explore the benefits: The cost-benefit analysis tool is now available for trusts in the South East. Use it to assess the clinical impact and cost-effectiveness of adopting this innovative digital solution in your organisation.

Looking ahead: Once the pilot is complete, all South East trusts will be able to enrol and start using the digital tool. Don’t miss the chance to get ahead.

Want to learn more?

Contact sarah.fishburn1@nhs.net for details