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: SystmOnline
- via Accurx
- through your local pharmacy
We do not take repeat prescription requests over the phone. This is to avoid mistakes when taking information about medication over the phone and to free our lines for more urgent calls and appointments.
When waiting for your prescription, it may be quicker to ring your pharmacy rather than waiting on our phone lines.
You can also request emergency prescriptions via NHS 111 when our surgery is closed.
Collecting your prescription
You can usually collect your prescription 2 working days after you have ordered it.
Please ensure that you always have sufficient tablets to last you over the weekend and public holidays when the surgery is closed. We also suggest you do not request medication when you only have 1 or 2 left as we cannot always guarantee these will be done in time for your next dosage.
Most pharmacies in this area operate a prescription collection service from the surgery. Your prescription request will need to be handed in to us first and will then be collected by the pharmacy of your choice.
Some pharmacies will deliver to your home.
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 by filling in our 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 prescribing clerk after 10am on 01992 465555
- via Accurx
As recommended by the Department of Health, and in line with other local surgeries, the practice has introduced a 56-day repeat prescribing policy for patients who are exempt from paying for their prescriptions.
This policy has been recognized by the NHS as achieving the best balance between patient convenience, good medical practice and minimal drug wastage. The surgery participates in repeat dispensing which means that we can provide you with a batch of prescriptions for up to 12 months.
This saves you from having to come to the surgery to request another prescription. This service is for patients who have regular medication and are currently stable. Please ask your doctor if you qualify and would like this option.
Dossette boxes are no longer available by the surgery but some pharmacies offer this service. Pease speak to your local pharmacy.
Medication reviews
Whilst on repeat prescriptions you will be asked from time to time to see the doctor to ensure that the medication is working and that the dose is correct.
Prescription charges
Find out more about prescription charges (nhs.uk).
You can also find out if you are entitled to free prescriptions by visiting the website NHS UK: Am I entitled to free prescriptions?
What to do with old medicines
Take it to the pharmacy you got it from. 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 room where you can discuss issues with pharmacy staff.