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: Patient Access
- posting your completed slip to the surgery
- taking your completed slip to your chosen pharmacy
- fill out a repeat prescriptions request form
Thorns Road Surgery operates a Patient Led Prescription Ordering system. The aim is to make prescription ordering safer, clearer and easier for patients.
Instead of pharmacies ordering medicines on your behalf, patients will request their own repeat prescriptions directly from the practice.
Collecting your prescription
You can usually collect your prescription 2 working days after you have ordered it.
We are not a dispensing practice.
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
What patient led prescription ordering means
Patient Led Prescription Ordering means patients request their own repeat prescriptions when they need them.
You choose when to order and what medicines you need. The practice checks the request and sends the prescription to your nominated pharmacy as usual.
This helps make sure prescriptions stay accurate and up to date.
Ordering yourself helps prevent:
- Medicines being ordered too early
- Medicines being requested that you no longer take
- Stock building up at home
- Waste of NHS medicines
You stay in control of your prescriptions.
How to order your prescription
Use the NHS App
The NHS App is one of the quickest ways to request repeat prescriptions. You can:
- Order repeat medicines
- Choose or change your pharmacy
- Track your request
If you have not used the NHS App before, our reception team can help you get started.
Order online through the practice website
You can request repeat prescriptions through the online services on our website.
Submit a request to the surgery
You can also request your repeat medication directly from the practice by handing in your repeat slip to reception.
Whichever method you choose, please allow enough time for your prescription to be processed.
What will no longer happen
Pharmacies will no longer routinely order repeat prescriptions on behalf of patients.
Patients will need to request their own medication directly from the practice.
Your pharmacy will still dispense your medication once the prescription is issued. The change only affects who places the order.
In some cases, special arrangements may remain in place for patients who cannot manage their own ordering. These situations are assessed individually.
Support for patients who need extra help
We understand that some patients may feel unsure about this change, especially if they have always relied on their pharmacy to order medication.
Our team is here to help.
If you:
- Are not confident using technology
- Need help setting up the NHS App
- Are unsure how to request medication
- Care for someone who needs support
Please contact the practice. Our reception team will guide you through the options and help you find the best way to order your prescriptions.
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
Everyone will have a 6 monthly review of the medication with the doctor. Reminders will be made when the 5th prescription is issued, so please check. Remember to tick the items you wish to re-order. A duplicate of your repeat prescriptions can be requested from reception. Please use this as this reduces errors.
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.