Smartcards
Every colleague involved in the dispensing and handout process should have a valid smartcard. This includes locums and provisionally registered pharmacists. CPGM have worked with the RA to simplify the process within Greater Manchester
You can view the latest contact information for the RA team covering Greater Manchester
If you do not live within Greater Manchester, please contact the local RA in the area that you live.
All pharmacies need to install the latest smartcard authentication software called Smartcard Connect. This replaces the current Identity Agent software and will allow for greater security around authentication plus offers support for the new Series 10 version of smartcards which are now being issued. The cut-off date for this change is 28th February 2027 when authentications using Identity Agent will be rejected.
If you have lost your smartcard you must notify the Registration Authority immediately. Please email gmss.smartcards@nhs.net
If you don’t have a smartcard then you can request this via one of the two methods below:
- Care Identity Service (CIS) portal – A request is made directly by the designated sponsor for your pharmacy via the portal. This is the easiest and preferred method. You can then arrange for an RA Agent to visit your pharmacy to view your identification documents.
- CPGM Smartcard Request Form – You can complete this form. You are no longer required to visit the RA office in person to show your identification documents. You will receive an invite from RA to complete an NHSE online application called Apply for Care ID (AfCID).
If you are a registrant and also require SCR access adding to your smartcard you must complete the SCR CPPE e-assessment and select the option in your profile to share details with the Registration Authority (RA).You can request this via one of the two methods below:
- Care Identity Service (CIS) portal – A request is made directly by the designated sponsor for your pharmacy via the portal. Completing the CIS form will allow the Registration Authority (RA) to assign the necessary roles required on your card. This is the preferred method.
- CPGM Smartcard Access Request Form – You can complete this form. We will send your information to the RA who will get in touch with you. If you are a locum or on relief covering more than 5 pharmacies please select the locum access.
Every contractor should have a sponsor already set up who has access to the Care Identity Service (CIS) portal.
This is the most effective way for you to request any changes to smartcards. If you are unsure as to who your Pharmacy sponsor is please email the RA team on gmss.smartcards@nhs.net
If you have any questions or queries around Smartcards, please get in touch with the Greater Manchester RA team: gmss.smartcards@nhs.net
