As part of an ongoing programme of security improvements EMIS are making changes to how you log-in to PharmOutcomes (including Outcomes4Health and OcularOutcomes). You will need to comply with the new mandatory multi-factor authentication (MFA) process from Tuesday 5th March 2024.
We (PharmOutcomes) understand that these changes may cause some temporary disruption as you adjust to the new process. We are working hard to keep this to a minimum by providing clear and comprehensive training guidance and additional customer support teams.
What you need to do:
1. All users must have a unique email address associated with their account.
Each PharmOutcomes user must have their own login, which must be linked to a unique email address. The preferred option is a unique NHSmail address. Users who do not have a personal NHSmail account can use an alternative email address as long as it is unique to that user. NB usernames with a shared email address can no longer be used.
We have created guidance on how to change your email address and specific guidance for administrators to update email addresses for their users. You will not be able to set up multi-factor authentication or access PharmOutcomes without a unique email address.
2. Setting up multi-factor authentication
When you next attempt to log-in to PharmOutcomes, you will be prompted to set-up multi-factor authentication for your account. This will involve downloading an appropriate authenticator application. You then need to scan a QR code (on a mobile) or input a serial number (desktop application) to set up your MFA account. The NHS recommends the Microsoft Authenticator, however you can use a different authentication application you are used to, if it complies with your local IT policy.
To further support our members, we have created an easy guide to support you in downloading an alternative desktop authenticator. This will ensure ease of access and prevent the reliance on a mobile device that can be challenging in a pharmacy environment.
We have used Google Chrome desktop authenticator as an example.
Please note if you have already downloaded an authenticator app to a mobile device, you will need to contact PharmOutcomes to have it removed in order to switch to a desktop authenticator solution.
Going forward, each time you log-in to PharmOutcomes, you will need to input a unique one-time password (OTP) from your authenticator application as well as your usual log-in credentials.
Further support
If you have any further questions or need additional support with MFA, please contact PharmOutcomes on: 0345 450 6279. (For any queries not relating to MFA, please use the Contact Us page)
We thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we continue to improve and prioritise the security of our systems and users.