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 via the link at the top of this page

If you do not have access not NHS App or do not have access to email please write to us.

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

During bank holiday periods the turn-around time for repeat prescriptions will increase, therefore during bank holiday periods such as Christmas and Easter please ensure you order your medication in good time so that you have enough medication during the bank holiday periods.

Please note; you may log back into the online repeat prescriptions site at any time to view the status of your request. Once the request has been processed you will be able to see if you have been approved.

Any request not approved is probably due to your repeat prescription being used up or your drug was not prescribed as a repeat in the first place. Please call the practice to book an appointment to see a Nurse or Doctor to get your script approved. However in some cases the repeat prescription may be refused and you may have to come in and have an unplanned check up with your GP to make sure the prescription is suitable or so they can then extend the 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.
• fill in our medication query 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

Find out more about prescription charges (nhs.uk).

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 consultation room where you can discuss issues with pharmacy staff without being overheard.

Pharmacy First initiative, launched on January 31, 2024, by NHS England, is designed to enhance access to healthcare through community pharmacies. It allows patients to receive treatment for common conditions directly from pharmacies, bypassing the need for a GP appointment.

This initiative covers conditions like:

• ear infections
• sore throats
• uncomplicated urinary tract infections
• sinusitis
• impetigo
• infected insect bites
• shingles

Pharmacy First aims to alleviate pressure on GP services by providing quicker, more convenient access to healthcare. Pharmacists are equipped to offer consultations and, if appropriate, supply prescription medications under predefined clinical pathways .

If the specialist prescribes a new medication or changes one that you are on, they should provide you with the first prescription. This may be on a white prescription that can be used in the hospital pharmacy or on a green one that you can take to your normal pharmacy.

Upon notification from the specialist your surgery may automatically add the medication change to your repeat list on the computer. You will then be able to order re-supply without an appointment. However you must telephone your surgery to confirm this or use on-line services if you have registered for them.

NOT ALL MEDICATIONS PRESCRIBED BY A SPECIALIST ARE SUITABLE FOR BEING PRESCRIBED BY YOUR GP SURGERY.

If you are uncertain what changes the specialist is making please ask them to explain it to you at your next appointment. It saves you having to see your GP to discuss something he or she may only know of from a short letter of explanation.

The NHS belongs to you, use it responsibly.

Wasted or unused medicines is a serious and growing problem within the NHS, please can you help tackle this by simply ensuring the following process has been followed?

• Check what you need before placing your repeat medication order.
• Do not stockpile medication.
• Only order medication which you require.
• Continue to finish any excess stock you have left from previous order.
• If you don’t take medicines that are prescribed for you, DON’T order it. (Please inform your GP you are not taking that medicine).
• If you have asked Chemist to order your repeats, please ask them to check with you what is required before placing an order with the surgery.
• Do not share your medications with others, this is dangerous and puts others at risk.

Remember that once medicines have left a pharmacy, they cannot be reused, so check your bag of medicines before you leave the pharmacy

Please do not waste medicines.