Other Ways to Order Your Prescriptions
- By Post:
Post the computerised repeat prescription slip indicating the medication you require to the surgery, enclosing a stamped self addressed envelope. If posting please remember to give at least one weeks notice and use a secure tracked postal service. - In Person:
Return the counterfoil of the prescription document to reception. Clearly mark with a tick the medication you require. A box is provided in the lobby to enable you to deliver your prescription without having to wait. If the surgery is closed your prescription slip can be placed in our postbox at the front of the building. - Chemist:
Arrange with a local chemist to request and collect your prescription. Please see Prescription Collection Points.
In the interests of safety, we do not accept requests by telephone.
When will my Prescription be ready?
Prescriptions will be ready for collection in two working days (longer by post) if you will be picking the prescription up from the surgery.
Request Received | Script Ready By |
|---|---|
Monday | Wednesday |
Tuesday | Thursday |
Wednesday | Friday |
Thursday | Monday |
Friday | Tuesday |
For Example | |
Please request repeat prescriptions well in advance of public holidays, etc.
For those that request their prescription be sent to a local pharmacy then the time will be dependant on that pharmacy. Please contact the relevant pharmacy for an indication of the timescale.
Collection Points
Patients can either collect their prescription from the surgery or a chemist of their choice.
In order for prescriptions to be collected from a chemist, patients need to register at their chemist of choice for the 'Prescription Collection Service'. Once the Chemist has agreed to collection on your behalf, Patients then need to instruct the Practice which must be in writing - forms are available from most chemists.
Electronic Prescriptions Service
The Electronic Prescription Service (EPS) is an NHS service. It gives you the chance to change how your GP sends your prescription to the place you choose to get your medicines or appliances from.
Over the Counter (OTC) Medicines
Please help us save money for the NHS
Penkridge Medical Practice currently spends £103,000 per year on prescribing medication to patients that could be bought cheaply over the counter at any chemist or supermarket.
In line with a new national and local initiative we are aiming to reduce this spend. The first OTC (over the counter) medicine we are looking at is hayfever medication. We will be removing all hayfever medication that can be bought over the counter from repeat prescriptions and will not be prescribing it. Advice from clinicians will be to purchase the medication. This policy will apply to all age groups, including children and those patients who receive free NHS prescriptions.
Please help us to achieve this reduction. Don’t ask clinicians for this medication on prescription. Your request will be refused. Support your local shops, buy it over the counter.
Thank you for your support.
Good Medication Management is Important
Please preempt ordering prescriptions to avoid medication running out.
If you are given 56 days of tablets and you have 7 days left, order your new prescription. In the case of any emergency your regular pharmacist will give you a couple of tablets until you get your new prescription.
If you are going on holiday you should take a list of your medication with you. In case you have a problem ENSURE YOU HAVE ENOUGH MEDICATION TO COVER YOUR HOLIDAY. SOME COUNTRIES ALSO NEED A DOCTOR's LETTER TO EXPLAIN THE MEDICATION. Check with your travel agent.
If you have elderly relatives ensure that they have an adequate supply of their medication. Dossette boxes or blister packs can be arranged if they have a large amount of medication to take.
Useful Information
Each drug has two names, the generic and the brand name. Where possible we use the generic name because this is usually much cheaper for the health service. Due to this, you may notice a change in colour, shape or size of your drug. Do not be concerned by this, you are still receiving the same drug of the same quality, it is only the appearance that has altered.
Please book your medications review appointment at least 10 days before your medication runs out.
Prescription Charges and Exemptions
The NHS prescription charge is a flat rate amount which successive Governments have thought it reasonable to charge for those who can't afford to pay for their medicines. Prescription prepayment certificates (PPCs) offer real savings for people who need a lot of medication.
Prescription charges and Prescription Prepayment Certificates (PPC).