Prescriptions

We require four working days to process requests for medications to allow sufficient time for the GP to make the necessary checks on your record to ensure safe and appropriate prescribing. Late or last-minute requests for medications create additional workload for the whole practice team and can reduce the amount of time that GPs have for patient care.

Please note, we are unable to take medication requests over the phone or by email.

Medications can be requested in the following ways:

Online via your GP online account (SystmOnline) or via your NHS account (Through the NHS website or NHS App)

Automatically via Repeat Dispensing (recommended) - for repeat prescriptions only. (What is Repeat Dispensing?)

In writing by letter or by dropping in your printed prescription slip or hospital clinic prescription request form

Your prescription can be collected in the following ways:

Most prescriptions are now sent electronically to your chosen pharmacy.  Choosing a pharmacy is called 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

If you prefer, you can choose to collect an un-nominated paper prescription token from reception - this can then be taken to any pharmacy (this can be useful if the medication may be in short supply).

You can also submit a stamped addressed envelope if you want the prescription sent to you.

If you have questions about your medicine, your local pharmacist 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 reception team on 02380 555776 and ask to speak to one of our medicines managers.
• drop in a hand-written query

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.

Take it to any pharmacy who will dispose of it safely. Do not put it in your household bin or flush it down the toilet.

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.