Prescriptions

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

These accounts show you all your repeat medicine and dosage and you can choose the ones you need.

You can also:

• leave your repeat prescription request in the box on the front reception desk

We do not take repeat prescription requests over the phone or email.

Due to the volume of requests we receive, we are having to streamline how requests can be made. Therefore, we no longer take these requests via the website. Please use one of the other options above.

Please only request your medication once via one platform, the request will be received and processed.

Collecting your prescription

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
• fill out a nominate a pharmacy or other dispenser form
• at any pharmacy that accepts repeat prescriptions

Emergency prescription request

Due to an increasing number of requests for urgent repeat prescriptions, we have reviewed our safety protocols. Requests for prescriptions outside the normal timeframe impact significantly on Doctor and staff time, reducing availability for clinically unwell patients and increasing the risk of prescribing errors.

We have a strict policy for issuing acute (urgent) prescriptions. An “urgent” request is defined as a medication where missing a dose would cause immediate harm to your health.

How to make an urgent request

• Local Pharmacy – they might be able to provide a short “Emergency Supply” (at their discretion)  
• Attend in person – you can request a ‘Urgent Medication Request Form’ from reception and hand it back in.
• Online – you can complete the Urgent Medication Request form online

When we are closed, you can contact NHS 111 for an “Emergency Supply”. Please note this is at their discretion but they will advise accordingly.

Medications considered for urgent issue

The following medications are generally considered clinically urgent. However, issuance is always subject to the Doctor’s discretion on the day:

• Reliever asthma inhalers (for example, Salbutamol)
• Insulin and diabetes supplies
• Anaphylaxis medication (for example, EpiPen, Jext, Emerade)
• Anticoagulants/Blood thinners (for example, Warfarin, Apixaban, Rivaroxaban)
• Anti-epileptics (for example, epilepsy medication)
• Mental health medication (for example, Antipsychotics, Lithium)
• Heart medication (for example, GTN spray, Digoxin, Amiodarone)
• Palliative care medication
• Steroids (Long term)
• Anti-Parkinson’s drugs

Please note the list is non-exhaustive and it is important to note that not all medications within these categories are considered time-critical.

All requests are clinically assessed and the outcome will depend on the clinical risk.

This policy is put in place to protect our patients and staff, and we will not tolerate any abuse. We reserve the right to withdraw the service from patients requesting urgent prescriptions on a repeated basis.

For more information, please see our Urgent Prescription Request Policy.

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:

• fill out an ask a prescription question form

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

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

If for any reason you are not taking your medicines or you have supplies at home, do not request that medication. Our aim is to ensure continuous supply of medication and reduce waste of unwanted medication. You can take surplus medication 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.

Find a pharmacy (nhs.uk)

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.