What We Do
Amcare by Convatec is a registered Dispensing Appliance Contractor (DAC) with NHS England. A DAC is a specialist provider contracted by the NHS to supply and fit medical appliances, such as stoma, continence and wound dressing products, prescribed under the Drug Tariff (Part IX). Our DAC services support patients who receive NHS prescriptions for medical applicances only - not medications. Our services include:
- Supplying prescription appliances in accordance with NHS guidelines
- Coordinating with prescribers and healthcare professionals
- Providing product guidance within our clinical remit
- Offering ongoing support for patients using medical appliances
Are Dispensing Appliance Contractors (DACs) Pharmacies?
No. Dispensing Appliance Contractors (DACs) are not pharmacies. While both are regulated under the NHS Pharmaceutical Services Regulations and appear on the NHS pharmaceutical list, DACs only supply medical appliances (such as stoma or continence products) listed in Part IX of the Drug Tariff. They do not dispense medicines or provide the full range of pharmaceutical services that pharmacies offer.
We do not operate as a pharmacy, and we do not dispense or ship prescription-only medications.
DAC Identifiers (ODS Codes and Scottish Licence Numbers)
Each DAC has a unique ODS code or Licence Number (in Scotland), which NHS systems use to accurately identify the correct service provider. Amcare by Convatec is fully registered and identifiable in the NHS Organisation Data Service (ODS). Each Amcare site has a unique ODS code.
ODS Codes and Licence Numbers
FFF14, FFY68, FJM24, FXN29, FMY99, FXW61, FT468, 6981 (Scotland), 8600 (Scotland)
Regulatory Status
Under NHS and UK healthcare regulations, medical appliances, such as intermittent catheters and stoma bags, are classified as prescription medical devices.
We comply with:
- NHS Drug Tariff Part IX
- NHS Pharmaceutical Services Regulations
- UK Medical Device Regulations
- GDPR and UK Data Protection Act 2018
Prescription Handling
To supply medical appliances, we may require:
- A valid NHS prescription issues by a healthcare professional
- Patient consent where applicable
- Strict adherence to NHS data and safety standards
All appliances and medical devices supplied through our services:
- Are CE/UKCA marked
- Meet UK medical device regulations
- Are sourced from approved, reputable manufacturers/wholesalers
Why Transparency Matters
We are committed to full compliance with NHS regulations and to providing clear, accurate information to patients and healthcare professionals.