Ordering repeat prescriptions
The easiest ways to order repeat prescriptions are:
- using your NHS account (through the NHS website or in the NHS App). This is the best method as it shows you all your repeat medicine and dosage and you can choose the ones you need.
- using an online prescription request form on this website
You can also:
- order over the phone by calling us on 01784 420700, Monday to Friday. To avoid the morning rush and a longer waiting time please call when the phone lines are less busy between 11am and 3pm.
- bring the paper form to the surgery, when we are open.
- post your prescription slip to us (please include an SAE so we can send it back to you)
Collecting your prescription
Virtually all prescriptions are now electronically sent directly to the pharmacy shop of your choice. You can usually collect your medication from the pharmacy 72 hours after you have ordered it. If the pharmacy shop does not have all your medication in stock then the shop should tell you this prior to dispensing the medication so that you have the choice to try another pharmacy shop instead. They should not ask you to go back to your GP practice.
If not done already then you will need to lets know your choosen pharmacy that you wish to collect your medication 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
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.
Travelling abroad and prescriptions
If travelling abroad for more than 3 months you need to obtain your medication in the country of your destination. The NHS will not supply medication for a trip lasting more than 3 months. Additionally, if you need medical advice, then please register with a local doctor in your country of destination as we cannot give advice to overseas patients.
Early renewal prescription requests
If you need to request a renewal prescription early before its expiry date then please can you explain the reasons as to why this is required. This is to reduce rejection rates.
For example a 2 monthly prescription will have a cut off rejection time of 3 weeks. i.e. if you ask for a renewal before 3 weeks of the date when the prescription is due then your request is automatically rejected.
A repeat prescription is medication that you take regularly that is approved by a doctor, it does not include acute medication. If you have not had a repeat medication in the last 6 months it will no longer be on your “Repeat Medication” list (NHS rules not ours).
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.
Find out more about prescription charges (nhs.uk).
Take it to the pharmacy you got it from. 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.
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.
