Veterinary Prescriptions Have Changed. We've made it simple. Here's How the Online Process Works.

Understanding the new veterinary prescription requirements with Agridirect and VetPal.

The veterinary prescription process in Ireland has changed, and we understand that it has raised questions for many farmers.

At Agridirect, we've adapted our online service to work with the new requirements. Through our integration with VetPal, customers can complete the necessary information online, with prescription requests referred for veterinary assessment where appropriate.

This guide explains the process, what information you'll need and what happens at each stage.

 

How Does the Online Process Work?

<text color="secondary" italic>Our straightforward six-step guide</text>

Step 1 — Start on the Agridirect Website

Visit Agridirect.ie and find the relevant animal-health information or service you need.

Step 2 — Enter Your Details

Provide the required information, including your herd number, animal details and other relevant information.

This helps ensure that the veterinary practitioner has the information necessary to assess your request.

Step 3 — Veterinary Review Through VetPal

Our integration with VetPal allows your request to be submitted for assessment by a veterinary practitioner.

The vet reviews the information provided and determines whether a prescription is appropriate. Additional information or assessment may be required.

Step 4 — Prescription Issued Where Appropriate

If the veterinary practitioner determines that a prescription is appropriate, it can be issued through the relevant electronic prescribing system.

The prescription is not automatic or guaranteed.

Step 5 — Prescription Fulfilment

Where a valid prescription has been issued, Agridirect can process and fulfil eligible orders in accordance with the applicable requirements.

Step 6 — Delivery

Once the necessary checks are completed and the order is ready, eligible orders can be dispatched to your farm or home within Ireland.

[INSERT EXPLAINER VIDEO — SEE THE PROCESS IN ACTION]

Watch our short walkthrough to see how the online process works, from entering your details to veterinary review and fulfilment.

 

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What Is VetPal?

<text color="secondary" italic>Helping connect the different stages of the veterinary prescription process.</text>

VetPal is a digital platform that supports communication and prescription workflows between animal owners, veterinary practitioners and authorised suppliers.

Agridirect's integration with VetPal helps bring the relevant stages of the process together online.

What this means for farmers:

• Submit the necessary information digitally.

• Have prescription requests assessed by a veterinary practitioner.

• Follow the appropriate process without unnecessary paperwork.

• Access online assistance if you have questions.

All prescribing decisions remain with the veterinary practitioner.

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Already Have a Veterinary Prescription?

If your vet has already issued a valid electronic prescription, you may be able to have it fulfilled by an authorised supplier, subject to the applicable supply rules.

The National Veterinary Prescription System (NVPS) allows farmers to receive prescription details electronically, including a prescription code that can be presented to an authorised dispenser.

[CTA: Learn About Using an Existing Prescription]

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Frequently Asked Questions

 

Do I need a veterinary prescription?

Certain veterinary medicines require a valid prescription before they can be supplied. The requirements depend on the medicine and its legal classification.

Can I start the prescription process online?

Yes. Agridirect's VetPal integration supports an online prescription-request workflow for eligible cases. A veterinary practitioner must independently assess the request before deciding whether to issue a prescription.

Do I have to visit my local vet?

Not necessarily for every prescription request. Depending on the circumstances, a veterinary practitioner may be able to carry out the appropriate assessment using the information provided. A consultation, additional information or further examination may still be necessary.

What information will I need?

Depending on your request, you may need:

• Your herd number

• Animal species and relevant animal details

• Farm/contact information

• Relevant treatment history

• Other information requested for veterinary assessment

What is the NVPS?

The National Veterinary Prescription System is Ireland's electronic veterinary prescribing system, operated by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.

It supports the recording and dispensing of veterinary prescriptions.

Can I use a prescription from my own vet?

Yes, where the prescription is valid and the supplier is legally authorised to dispense the relevant medicine.

Is a prescription guaranteed?

No. The veterinary practitioner makes an independent clinical decision based on the information and assessment required.

Can I get help with the online process?

Yes. Our Agridirect team can explain the administrative steps and help you navigate the website. Veterinary advice and prescribing decisions must come from the veterinary practitioner.

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Need Help Understanding the New Process?

We're here to help you navigate the changes.

Whether you're unsure what information is required, have questions about the online steps or need help using the website, our team can point you in the right direction.

Call Agridirect: (049) 952 7944

[CTA: Contact Our Team]

[CTA: View Our Online Process Guide]

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Useful Official Information

For further information on the regulations and electronic prescriptions, visit:

• Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine — National Veterinary Prescription System

• Health Products Regulatory Authority — Veterinary Medicines

• Teagasc — Veterinary Prescription Guidance

All prescriptions are subject to independent veterinary assessment and applicable veterinary medicines legislation. Online fulfilment and delivery are available only for eligible products and orders.