Repeat prescriptions

Urgent prescription requests continue to cause problems for both patients and practice. For that reason we make the following statement: 

Our aim is to return normal repeat prescriptions within two working days and any prescriptions queries within four working days.

The reason that we need this time is that all prescriptions have to be checked for accuracy and safety and signed by the doctor.  Often there may be need to cross reference with results or letters from hospitals and patient safety is our utmost concern.

It would be very helpful if there is a regular repeat item you are using that is not on your order form, to clarify this with your doctor when you next speak. (There may be a reason why the doctor prefers not to put it on the order form)

Please take responsibility for ordering your prescriptions allowing for weekends/ holidays etc

 Except for insulin, inhalers and anticonvulsants, the doctors have stated that no harm will come to you if you miss a prescription for 24 hours and we ask that you allow us time to process an urgent prescription request and not to rush us as this contributes to errors and risk.

Routine "repeat-prescriptions" – using ticked re-order form (with no other marks / requests / alterations)

This form is printed on the right of your prescription.

• Will be ready in 2 working days

• For a further supply, tick the relevant item -do not write on or amend form

• Place in the repeat prescription box in the lobby of the Medical Centre or post or fax to 769700

• It will be returned by post if a stamped addressed envelope is provided.

• Your prescription can collected from one of the Westbourne pharmacies (see below) if you circle your preference at the bottom of the reorder form

Prescription request cannot be taken over the telephone.  This is our practice policy to safeguard patients from errors in prescribing.  Any staff member involved would be in serious trouble if they break the rules on your behalf.

Nominated Pharmacy

We prefer you to nominate a local pharmacy from which you can collect your medication. This gives the chemist time to dispense your items.  It will also save you and our staff time.  All prescriptions generated for you, including 'one-offs' and special issues done by a doctor have the name of that pharmacy printed on the top left hand corner.  These will be collected by the pharmacy on their twice daily collections. Please do not come to the medical centre looking for repeat prescriptions -- if you do please state that they normally go to a specific pharmacy.

Over-the-counter drugs

Inevitably, many of our patients on repeat medication will buy other drugs from the chemist.  Please let the pharmacist see your repeat prescriptions slip so he or she can check for drug interactions. Please also tell your doctor if you are buying any medicines over-the-counter whenever your repeat medication is changed. See BMA Report