Smartcard Registration Authorities (RAs)

Local NHS organisations are responsible for commissioning Registration Authorities (RAs). RAs issue and manage NHS smartcards, which pharmacy teams need to access NHS systems.

RA contact details

Each area has its own RA. Contact details vary by location.

• Find local RA contact details on our smartcards page.

RA standards and processes

NHS IT issued RA operating standards guidance to help local NHS teams and Local Pharmaceutical Committees (LPCs) check that RAs are meeting expected service standards.

Detailed information about how RAs should operate is set out in the RA process and policy guidance. This explains how smartcards should be issued, updated, revoked, and supported.

Escalating smartcard and RA issues

If you are unhappy with the service provided by your local RA, there is a clear escalation route.

1. Email your local RA setting out the issue clearly. Copy your Local Pharmaceutical Committee (LPC) into the email.
2. If the issue is not resolved, ask your LPC to escalate the concern on your behalf.
3. Further details about the escalation process are available in our smartcard resolution and escalation route factsheet.

This approach helps ensure issues are raised promptly and handled at the right level.

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For more information on this topic please email it@cpe.org.uk