Repeat prescriptions are medications which appear on the reverse of your prescription which your doctor would like you to continue on a regular basis.
How to Request a Repeat Prescription
Repeat prescriptions may be ordered in several ways:
Online
You can order your repeat prescriptions via NHS App or Patient Access on a computer, iPad or a phone app. The surgery will give you a log in and password to access this.
NHS App
Patient Access
Post
If a stamped addressed envelope is supplied, your prescription can be returned via Royal Mail.
Please allow at least 48 hours (excluding weekends and bank holidays) before collecting prescriptions.
Medication Reviews
Patients on repeat medication will be asked to see a doctor or practice nurse as least once a year to review these regular medications.
Please ensure that you book an appropriate appointment to avoid unnecessary delays to further prescriptions.
Private Prescriptions
A private prescription can only be issued if the medication is not available on the NHS. The prescription is not paid for by the NHS and the cost is paid for by the patient. It is charged by the cost of the medicine and the pharmacists charge for supplying it.
Please note a prescription is a legal document which the doctor who has signed it is responsible. Doctors who are seen privately cannot issue NHS prescriptions.
Electronic Prescription Service
GP online services allow you to access a range of services via your computer or mobile. Once you have signed up, you will be able to:
- Renew or order repeat prescriptions online
- View parts of your GP health record, including information about medication, allergies, vaccinations, previous illnesses and test results
The service is free. Everyone who is registered with a GP can have access to their practice’s online services.
How can I start using GP online services?
Follow the steps below to sign up for GP online services:
- Tell your GP practice that you would like to start using their online services
- A member of the practice will then ask you to fill in a short registration form
- You will have to provide photo ID and proof of address. If you do not have any ID then either a member of staff will have to confirm your identity or you may have to answer questions about personal information in your GP record
- Once you have signed up, you will receive your unique username and password and a link to where you can log in
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.
NHS charges
These charges apply in England only. In Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales prescriptions are free of charge.
- Prescription (per item): £9.80
- 12-month prepayment certificate (PPC): £120.00
- 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.
- Telephone advice and order line 0845 850 0030
- General Public – Buy or Renew a PPC On-line
There is further information about prescription exemptions and fees on the NHS website
How can I find out what online services my GP practice offers?
The services available to you will depend on the online system your GP practice uses. You can ask your practice what services they offer when you sign up or check on this website. Simply look up your GP practice using the services near you facility at the top of this page. Each available service is listed under “online facilities” on the “overview” and “facilities” pages of the GP profile (see example image).
The online system used by your GP also determines whether you can access any additional NHS-approved online service and apps. To find out more about these additional services, please check with your GP practice or have a look at the list below. More services and apps will be added to the list as they become available.
I’m not good with the internet – where can I get help?
There are a number of different services for people who need internet training such as UK online centres. Others are provided by local authorities, colleges and charities. The best place to start would be your local library.
Get tips on this website to help you become a more confident internet user, including how to keep yourself and others safe online.