Ordering repeat prescriptions
The easiest ways to order repeat prescriptions are:
- using your NHS app
- using the GP online system: Patient Access
- Online. You need a PIN code from reception to create your online account. This is acquired by filling in a very simple form and some showing photo ID to the receptionist
Please allow two working days before you collect your prescription. These items are the ONLY items that will be given as an urgent prescription i.e. within the same day:
Palliative Care Medicine, Anti-Epilepsy Medicine, Insulin, Inhalers, GTN Spray and Infant Medications.
All other items will be processed in the usual 48 hours. Please ensure you manage your prescription to avoid running out of medication.
Not all medication will be put on the slip for repeating. This may be to allow the doctor to assess how suitable the medication proves to be. Your GP will advise what action you should take if this is the case.
From time to time patients will be invited to see the doctor or nurse for a medication review.
Sometimes a blood test will be arranged in advance. This allows us to provide you with repeat prescriptions in a safe manner.
Electronic Prescriptions
You can now nominate a pharmacy closest to where you live, work or shop so that you don’t have to visit your GP practice to pick up your paper prescription.
You do this by informing the receptionist of your choice.
You can change the nominated pharmacy any time you want. The system is reliable, secure and confidential and will only be seen by the same people who see it now.
Collecting your prescription
You can usually collect your prescription from the pharmacy 3 to 5 working days after you have ordered it.
You will need to choose a pharmacy to collect your prescription from. We call this nominating a pharmacy.
You can change your nominated pharmacy at any time:
- on the app or website where you order repeat prescriptions
- at your GP practice
- at any pharmacy that accepts repeat prescriptions
Questions about your prescription
If you have questions about your medicine, your local pharmacists can answer these. They can also answer questions on medicines you can buy without a prescription.
The NHS website has information on how your medicine works, how and when to take it, possible side effects and answers to your common questions.
If you would like to speak to someone at the GP surgery about your prescription:
- phone our pharmacist after 10am on 01282 502740
- fill in our medication query form.
We do not accept repeat prescription requests over the phone. This brings our practice into line with others in the locality.
This process avoids errors as medication requests over the telephone can be misunderstood and can take time to clarify.
Written requests avoid potential confusion and medication errors. In addition, we will reduce the number of calls to the surgery which will improve telephone access for those in need of emergency help, advice or making appointments.
Patients receiving repeat medications can order prescriptions by dropping the repeat slip into the surgery, sending it in by post, or by using the online ordering system.
Medication reviews
If you have a repeat prescription, we may ask you to come in for a regular review. We will be in touch when you need to come in for a review.
Prescription charges
Find out more about prescription charges (nhs.uk).
What to do with old medicines
Take it to the pharmacy you got it from or bring it in to the surgery. Do not put it in your household bin or flush it down the toilet.
About pharmacists
As qualified healthcare professionals, pharmacists can offer advice on minor illnesses such as:
- coughs
- colds
- sore throats
- tummy trouble
- aches and pains
They can also advise on medicine that you can buy without a prescription.
Many pharmacies are open until late and at weekends. You do not need an appointment.
Most pharmacies have a private consultation room where you can discuss issues with pharmacy staff without being overheard.