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: SystmOnline
- post a request letter to the surgery
- pop a request slip into the box at reception
These accounts show you all your repeat medicine and dosage and you can choose the ones you need.
Please order your medication 10 days before you are due to run out.
We do not take repeat prescription requests over the phone or email.
Collecting your prescription
You can usually collect your prescription 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
- fill out a nominate a pharmacy form
- at any pharmacy that accepts repeat prescriptions
Repeat dispensing
Repeat dispensing is an approved NHS service designed to make the collection and requesting of medications much easier for patients. It is fully approved by NHS England.
If you have been informed that you are on repeat dispensing, this will provide a convenient way to collect your medications. You will be told how many months this arrangement will last, typically 6 or 12 months.
You do not need to order from the doctor’s surgery but can simply collect your medication from your nominated (usual) pharmacist.
All you need to do is remember your NHS number (found on prescriptions, any NHS letter addressed to you, the NHS app, or online) and the month this started.
Your pharmacist should check this every month. However, if they need to download the prescription, simply tell them the month it started, and they will be able to locate it on their system.
We hope this makes life much easier for you.
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.
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
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.
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.