Hello we use the DBS client for our PAS NHS number tracing via exported CSV files and importing the response back into our PAS. The DBS client is being retired the end of 2026 and the recommended replacement is the PDS FHIR API. We already use the PDS API in our TIE but its on a patient by patient basis. Does anyone currently use the PDS FHIR API for batch tracing? I can see how to do this using the MESH UI via Master Patient Tracing Service (SPINE_PDS_MESH_V1). But am struggling to see if their is the equivalent through an API where we can send over a batch of patient records and receive a response.
Cheers
Louise
Hi Louise,
You are absolutely correct that we have a retirement date of end of 2026 for DBS.
Apologies, something has got lost in translation regarding PDS FHIR API.
Depending on what DBS is used for the PDS FHIR API could be the replacement product to use. However, given your message highlights that you are using DBS for batch tracing the recommended replacement is PDS MESH.
Decision for your organisation:
The first consideration for your organisation is whether you choose
- the MESH client 2) the MESH API or 3) the MESH UI
(If you work for a Trust it is almost certain that your Trust is already onboarded to MESH).
Action after that decision:
Personal Demographics Service access request - NHS England Digital
Appreciate this is counterintuitive, but being a DBS user does not automatically entitle access to PDS. So the next step is to submit a an access request. This is a bit of a ‘formality’ but is a necessary part of our process. Turn around time is very quick for.
We would then strongly recommend a new MESH mailbox is set up.
Feel free to reach out to me in a DM 