Ordering repeat prescriptions
We recommend that you order at least a week before you run out of medication.
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
These accounts show you all your repeat medicine and dosage and you can choose the ones you need.
You can also:
- write to the surgery or drop your request into reception
- email your request to reception.elmhayes@nhs.net
We do not take repeat prescription requests over the phone.
Collecting your prescription
You can usually collect your prescription 3 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
- at any pharmacy that accepts repeat prescriptions
Dispensary
We are pleased to offer an in-house dispensing service to all of our rural patients. This means that medications can be dispensed in the surgery immediately after seeing the doctor, or as a repeat medication.
If you require a repeat medication from our Dispensary please allow at least 3 working days for our team to process and dispense your medication.
We also offer a limited delivery service for those who are housebound. Please ask our dispensers for more information.
The Dispensary is open daily from 8:30am to 6pm.
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)
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
Charges apply in England only. In Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales prescriptions are free of charge.
Fees for prescriptions can be found on the NHS website.
If you will have to pay for four or more prescription items in three months, or more than 15 items in 12 months, you may find it cheaper to buy a PPC.
Find out more about prescription charges (nhs.uk).
Prescriptions charges and exemptions
Extensive exemption and remission arrangements protect those likely to have difficulty in paying charges (NHS prescription and dental charges, optical and hospital travel costs).
The NHS prescription charge is a flat-rate amount which successive Governments have thought it reasonable to charge for those who can afford to pay for their medicines. Prescription prepayment certificates (PPCs) offer real savings for people who need extensive medication.
What to do with old medicines
Take it to the pharmacy you got it from. 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
- rashes
- conjunctivitis
- urinary tract infections (UTI)
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.