Repeat Prescriptions

We run a computerised system to issue repeat prescriptions.

When the prescription is first added onto the computer an authorised number of repeats will be allowed. When you have had this number of repeats, a message will appear on your repeat prescription re-order slip advising you to see the doctor for review. The doctor will then adjust your medication if necessary and re-authorise your repeats. If you see this message, please book to see the doctor before you need your next prescription.

Repeat Prescription Re-Ordering

Please re-order your repeat prescription a week before you are due to run out of your current medication; please put a reminder in your diaries so you don’t forget to re-order.

We will not process requests which are more than a week in advance unless there are extenuating circumstances, and these requests are dealt with on a case by case basis.

You can re-order your repeat prescriptions in the following ways:

Online via Patient Access. Not registered? Complete our Register for Online Services form.
By post. Post the tear-off slip indicating the medication you require to the surgery, enclosing a stamped self-addressed envelope. If posting please remember to give at least one weeks notice for a first class stamp and longer if using second class.
In person. By dropping in the repeat reorder form or any queries at the front reception desk.
Chemist. Arrange with a local chemist to request and collect your prescription.

In the interests of safety, we do not accept requests by telephone.

When will my Prescription be Ready?

Prescriptions will be ready for collection in three working days (longer by post) if you will be picking the prescription up from the surgery.

Request received Monday – Script ready by Thursday
Request received Tuesday – Script ready by Friday
Request received Wednesday – Script ready by Monday
Request received Thursday – Script ready by Tuessday
Request received Friday – Script ready by Wednesday

For example, a script received on Tuesday at 16:00 will be ready for collection on Friday after 16:00.

Please request repeat prescriptions well in advance of public holidays, etc.

For those that request their prescription be sent to a local pharmacy then the time will be dependant on that pharmacy. Please contact the relevant pharmacy for an indication of the timescale.

Collection Points

Patients can either collect their prescription from the surgery or a chemist of their choice.

In order for prescriptions to be collected from a chemist, patients need to register at their chemist of choice for the ‘Prescription Collection Service’. Once the Chemist has agreed to collection on your behalf, Patients then need to instruct the Practice which must be in writing. Forms are available from most chemists.

Electronic Prescriptions Service

The Electronic Prescription Service (EPS) is an NHS service. It gives you the chance to change how your GP sends your prescription to the place you choose to get your medicines or appliances from.

Medication Reviews

Patients on repeat medication will be asked to see a doctor, nurse practitioner or practice nurse at least once a year to review these regular medications and notification should appear on your repeat slip.

Please ensure that you book an appropriate appointment to avoid unnecessary delays to further prescriptions.

Good Medication Management is Important

Please order prescriptions in good time to avoid medication running out.

If you are given 56 days of tablets and you have 7 days left, order your new prescription. In the case of any emergency your regular pharmacist will give you a couple of tablets until you get your new prescription.

It is good practice that repeat medication is regularly reviewed so that you get optimum care. Please make note of the review date and make an appointment to see the doctor.

If you are going on holiday, you should take a list of your medication with you. We suggest you use the part of the prescription the pharmacy provides with your medication.

If you have elderly relatives ensure that they have an adequate supply of their medication. Dosette boxes/blister packs can be arranged if they have a large amount of medication to take.

Useful Information

Please do not order a repeat prescription more than 7 days before it is due as the prescription cannot be processed.

Each drug has two names, the generic and the brand name. Where possible we use the generic name because this is usually much cheaper for the health service. Due to this, you may notice a change in colour, shape or size of your drug. Do not be concerned by this, you are still receiving the same drug of the same quality, it is only the appearance that has altered.

Please book your medications review appointment at least 10 days before your medication runs out.

Prescription Fees

Extensive exemption and remission arrangements protect those likely to have difficulty in paying charges (NHS prescription and dental charges, optical and hospital travel costs).

The NHS prescription charge is a flat-rate amount which successive Governments have thought it reasonable to charge for those who can afford to pay for their medicines. Prescription prepayment certificates (PPCs) offer real savings for people who need extensive medication.

View the cost of prescriptions on the NHS website.

You can also find out if you are entitled to free prescriptions.

Private Prescriptions

When private prescriptions are brought in with a request for them to be changed to an NHS prescription, the normal 48 hour rule will apply.

Prescriptions are unable to be changed immediately. If a prescription is deemed by the prescribing consultant to be urgent, please could you redeem the prescription at the appropriate hospital pharmacy. If new medication is being issued we will not issue more than one month at a time until you have been established on this medication in order to prevent expensive drug wastage in the event that the medicine does not suit you.

Online Medication Ordering

Patient Access

Non-urgent advice: Notice

Please allow 2 working days before collecting your prescription.