Ordering repeat prescriptions
The easiest ways to order repeat prescriptions are:
- using your NHS account (through the NHS website or in the NHS App)
- using the GP online system: Patient Access
These accounts show you all your repeat medicine and dosage and you can choose the ones you need.
You can also:
- fill out a repeat prescriptions request form
- bring your paper slip to the surgery
- post your request to the surgery
We do not take repeat prescription requests over the phone unless you are housebound and we agree that you can do this. This is a safety measure to prevent errors.
If you have the same medicines month in, month out, you may benefit from joining the repeat dispensing scheme (PDF).
Medicines that have been prescribed to you on a one-off basis cannot be re-issued to you without the authority of a doctor, and you may have to see the doctor in order to obtain further supplies. Some kinds of medicine, for example antidepressants, are not usually placed on repeat and will require a visit or telephone consultation with the doctor before a repeat prescription is agreed.
Collecting your prescription
You can usually collect your prescription 2 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 the surgery or fill out a nominate a pharmacy or other dispenser form
- 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.
Go to Medicines A to Z (nhs.uk)
If you would like to speak to someone at the GP surgery about your prescription:
- phone our pharmacist after 10am on 01206 382015
- fill out an ask a prescription question form
If you are going away for more than 3 months we follow the BMA guidelines:
“The NHS accepts responsibility for supplying ongoing medication for temporary periods abroad of up to three months. If a person is going to be abroad for more than three months then all that the patient is entitled to at NHS expense is a sufficient supply of his/her regular medication to get to the destination and find an alternative supply of that medication. ”
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
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.
Find out more about prescription charges (nhs.uk).
What to do with old medicines
Unfortunately we cannot take any unused medications at the surgery, please contact the pharmacy to arrange disposal.
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 room where you can discuss issues with pharmacy staff.
