NEL adoption of the Single National Formulary
North East London to adopt Single National Formulary (SNF) categorisation system
North East London is preparing to adopt the NHS England Single National Formulary (SNF) categorisation system as an early adopter site, with implementation currently planned for 23 October 2026.
The SNF introduces nationally consistent formulary categories across England, helping to make prescribing responsibilities clearer and formulary information easier to understand. It also supports NHS England’s longer term ambition of creating a more consistent national approach to formulary guidance. The change will replace existing Red, Amber and Green formulary categories with nationally consistent SNF categories. For most medicines, this is primarily a change in category terminology and presentation. Existing prescribing responsibilities, contractual arrangements, commissioning arrangements and governance processes remain unchanged.
The NEL netFormulary will be updated to use the new categories and will remain the authoritative source of formulary information. During the transition period, some historic guidance and communications may continue to reference previous terminology.
Further information, including a stakeholder briefing, quick reference guide and explainer video, is available via the links below.
Resources
- Stakeholder briefing memo
- SNF quick reference guide
- SNF explainer video
For the latest formulary information, please continue to refer to the NEL netFormulary.
Please share any feedback or practical issues that arise, as this will help inform the national programme as NEL tests the new categories in practice. Primary care colleagues should contact the NEL ICB Medicines and Pharmacy Team through the usual routes.