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
- fill out a repeat prescriptions request form
- tick the medication(s) you require only, from the list attached to the prescription form, then post it or bring it in to the surgery
Dispensing
If you are registered as a dispensing patient (you will know if you are), then you can collect your prescription Monday to Friday between the times of:
8.30am to 12pm and 2.30pm to 6pm.
Collecting your prescription
Please allow 5 working day from ordering your prescription to collecting it. You can request to be sent a text message when it is ready to be collected, for your convenience.
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
Medical Exemption Certificates
It is very important that if you have a Medical Exemption (ME) Certificate, that you ensure it is still valid and you bring it when collecting any medications. It is your responsibility and you will be asked for it.
The ME certificates last 5 years and you will be asked to provide proof of your exemption when collecting medication. If you are not able to present it, our team will require you to wait whilst they try and perform a check for you. Please expect a wait if you can’t prove your exemption with a valid certificate.
How do I renew my medical exemption certificate?
- Please request a ME renewal form from the dispenser and complete the patient sections of the form (you can take it home and bring it back at a later date).
- Please return the form to the dispenser or reception team. They will pass this to a GP for checking and completing relevant sections.
- The GP will review the form and sign when they are satisfied it is appropriate.
- The surgery will contact you when the form is ready for you to collect. Please request a freepost envelope for you to send your form to NHS Business Services Authority (BSA) when collecting your form.
- You must then post your form. The surgery will not post this type of form for you because this is a financial matter between yourself and the NHS BSA and the surgery will not take any responsibility for any loss or delay.
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.
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.