A New Way to Get Your Regular Prescriptions
If you or someone you care for, use the same medicines regularly, you may be able to benefit from repeat dispensing from the pharmacist. This means you won't have to visit the surgery or make an appoitment to see the doctor or practice nurse every time you need more medicine. If you are suitable for this scheme, you may be given 6 month's - a year's supply of your medication.
STEP 1 - The first step is to talk to the GP, Practice Nurse or Reception Staff and ask them if you can use repeat dispensing. They will then ask you for permission to share information with your pharmacist about your treatment. This will help the pharmacist give your prescriber information about your treatment, and give you useful advice. You may be asked to sign an agreement.
Your prescriber will give you a signed authorisation form (which is valid up to a year) and some repeat dispensing issue forms. They will explain to you what these forms are for.
STEP 2 - The next step is for you to take the authorisation form and one of your issue forms to the pharmacy when you need your first batch of medicine. You don't need to fill in or sign the issue form until your're ready to hand it to the pharmacist. The pharmacist can help you complete your form if you're not sure what to do. Let the pharmacist know if you're taking any other medicines, or if your condition has changed recently.
The pharmacist keeps your authorisation form. You should keep the rest of your issue forms in a safe place, or ask the pharmacy to look after them for you. You will need one each time you collect your medicine.
STEP 3 - Next time you need more medicine, go back to the same pharmacy with a new issue form. If the pharmacy is looking after the forms for you, contact them and tell them you need more medicine so they can have it ready for you when you go in. Remember to fill in your issue form when you get to the pharmacy so they can give you your medicine. If you have any questions, just ask the pharmacist. They'll be happy to help you.
Questions you may have
What happens if I lose forms, or I run out?
You'll need to go back to your prescriber and ask for more forms. Make sure you do this before your medicine runs out, in case your prescriber wants you to book an appointment to check that the medicine is still right for you.
Can any pharmacy provide this service?
You can choose any pharmacy that dispenses NHS prescriptions. You just need to make sure you use the same pharmacy each time you need more medicine.
What if I move home and need to use a different pharmacy?
You'll need to go back to your prescriber and get a new set of forms. You should take the new signed authorisation form and an issue form to your new pharmacy when you need your medicine.
Do I have to get all the items on my prescription at the same time?
No. If you've still got plenty of one type of medicine left, tell the pharmacist.
Is the pharmacist qualified to help me?
Yes. As well as doing a four-year masters degree, pharmacists do an additional year's training which covers the actions, uses and side-effects of medicines. That means they're highly qualified to advise you on the medicines you're taking.
Can the pharmacist change my prescription without telling me?
No. The pharmacist can talk to you about your medicine, and help you with any quesions or problems. But no one will change your prescription without talking to you first.
Will I still have to pay for my prescription?
Yes, if you're paying at the moment. A prescription pre-payment certificate (PPC) could save you money. Ask your pharmacist or call 0845 850 0300 for more information.
Do I qualify for free prescriptions?
Check Part 1 of your issue form. If any of the statements apply to you on the day you go to the pharmacy, you won't have to pay. For information about medical and maternity exemptions, call 0845 601 8076. To find out whether you qualify for free prescriptions under the NHS Low Income Scheme, call 0845 850 1166.
How long are these prescriptions valid for?
Most prescriptions are valid for a year. In some cases - for example if your prescriber wants to see you sooner - they may be valid for a shorter time.
Can I carry on getting repeat prescriptions from the surgery?
Yes, you can. It's up to you to decide how you want to get your medicines.