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
- fill out a repeat prescriptions request form
- using the re-order slip attached to your prescription
- request a print out of your re-order slip from reception
- in person
We do not take repeat prescription requests over the phone.
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
- fill out a nominate a pharmacy or other dispenser form
- at any pharmacy that accepts repeat prescriptions
If you change pharmacy and arrange for your prescriptions to be electronically sent to them, please let the surgery know so that we can update it in your medical record.
If there is a fault with the system or if you are prescribed certain medications that cannot be sent via EPS, your prescription will be printed. In this case we need to manually update your record with your new pharmacy.
Understanding your medicines
It is not possible for us to consider all possible side-effects of your medication during normal consultations. We therefore recommend that you read the patient information leaflet (PIL) enclosed with any medicines prescribed by the NHS.
According to the MHRA (Medicine’s and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency), “Self-care, a key government objective, relies heavily on patients having sufficient high quality information on which to base their decision-making”. The PIL is intended to provide uniform, objective and up to date information to which you can refer to at all times in order to help you to participate fully in concordant decision-making about medicines prescribed, or recommended, by healthcare professionals.
They should be read regularly to check for any changes as the pharmaceutical companies do update PILs from time to time as knowledge develops.
Please discuss any matters that may arise with your pharmacist in the first instance.
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
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. Complete this medication review form if you have been advised by the surgery that your medication review is due.
Prescription charges
Find out more about prescription charges (nhs.uk).
What to do with old medicines
Take it 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.
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.