Important Information About Ordering Repeat Prescriptions
In common with most other GP surgeries, repeat prescriptions cannot be requested through e-mail.
Nowadays there are excellent alternative ways to request repeat prescriptions which are safer and much easier to process. They are very easy to use, and the request enters our prescribing system immediately.
There are two apps to help you with ordering your prescription online:
- NHS app is the easiest one to register with. You will need a photo of your passport or driving licence to register, and you can register from home: www.nhs.uk/nhs-app/about-the-nhs-app
- Patient Access app is the second option and offers similar services, however, you will need to show your passport or driving licence at the surgery: www.patientaccess.com
Both of these apps allow a registered carer or parent to register the patient and apply for medicines on their behalf. In this case the carer or parent must come to the surgery to confirm ID with a passport or driving licence and register as a proxy.
Anyone else can have a proxy if they sign a written consent.
A child over 13 can use their own e-mail address on the NHS app. All children over 16 without a learning disability need to give written consent to have a proxy.
Please note:
- Repeat prescriptions are only authorised by the doctor if you require continuing, long term medication and you have a medication check on a regular basis.
- We do not accept requests for repeat prescriptions over the telephone, or verbally at the reception desk.
- Please allow at least 3 working days (taking account of Public Holidays) for preparation of the prescription. When we receive your request, various safety checks are carried out to make sure it is in line with medication previously prescribed, and that it is still appropriate. We also check that you are due to receive further supplies, and that you are not due for a medication check. Any request which doesn't give us sufficient information, is received too early, or is out of the ordinary in any way will cause extra work and delay. Please help us to operate safely and efficiently, so that we can give you a good service.
- When ready, prescriptions may be collected in person, posted back to you (if you have provided a stamped self-addressed envelope) or passed to a local chemist of your choice, if you have requested this.
- If you are a newly registered patient, you may need to see the doctor first for assessment and confirmation of your medication and dosage, before your medication can be prescribed. If you haven't already done so, please arrange an appointment for this purpose.
Changes to prescribing of over the counter medicines
Did you know that your local NHS spends £15m a year on prescribing medicines that are available to buy at the pharmacy?
Following national guidance from NHS England, we’re asking GPs not to prescribe these medicines*, including for conditions such as coughs, colds, headaches, mouth ulcers, travel sickness and mild toothache.
Your GP will not generally give you a prescription for over the counter medicines for a range of minor health concerns. Instead, over the counter medicines are available to buy at your local pharmacy.
The team of health professionals at the pharmacy can offer help and clinical advice to manage minor health concerns and if your symptoms suggest it’s more serious, they’ll direct you to the help you need.
For further details, including a list of conditions the guidance applies to, please take a look at our leaflet. You can also contact us at nwlccgs.communications.nwl@nhs.net
*Exceptions apply
Private prescriptions
These can only be issued if accompanied by a typed letter from the Consultant. We advise that you go to the clinic's pharmacy for the first issue as until a letter has been typed and received by the practice we cannot issue a prescription. You may like to get the letter before leaving the Private clinic. Transferring private prescriptions will require the same safety checks as NHS prescriptions; you should allow two working days for processing.