Prescriptions

Ordering repeat prescriptions

The easiest ways to order repeat prescriptions are:

These accounts show you all your repeat medicine and dosage and you can choose the ones you need.

In writing:

Submit a written request to the practice (slips are available at reception).  There is a ‘post box’ available in the main foyer.

We do NOT take repeat prescription requests over the phone or email.

Collecting your prescription

Please allow sufficient time before your medication runs out. We aim to process requests within 48 hours. You can order prescriptions up to 7 days in advance.

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 your GP practice
• At any pharmacy that accepts repeat prescriptions

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)

If you would like to speak to someone at the GP surgery about your prescription:

• Phone our pharmacist after 10am on 01952 605252
• Submit a non-urgent query by contacting us online

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

Find out more about prescription charges (nhs.uk).

About pharmacists

As qualified healthcare professionals, pharmacists can offer advice on minor illnesses such as:

• coughs
• colds
• sore throats
• tummy trouble
• aches and pains

They can also advise on medicine that you can buy without a prescription.

• Find a pharmacy (nhs.uk)

Many pharmacies are open until late and at weekends. You do not need an appointment.

Most pharmacies have a private consultation room where you can discuss issues with pharmacy staff without being overheard.

What to do with old medicines

Take it to the pharmacy you got it from or bring it in to the surgery. Do not put it in your household bin or flush it down the toilet.

Think Twice, Order Right

Only request the medicines you need

Did you know that approximately £2.6 million worth of medicine items are wasted unnecessarily in Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin each year?

We need your help to reduce this waste. The new campaign launched by NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin is asking residents to ‘Think Twice, Order Right’ before requesting repeat prescriptions. By checking which medicines you have at home and only requesting what you need, you will help protect NHS resources, keep medicines available for those that need them, and prevent unnecessary environmental harm.

How you can help

• Check first: Before ordering medicines check the amount you have and whether it is in date. Only reorder medications when you have around 7 to 10 days left. Only request the medicines you need.
• Think safety: Unused medicines can negatively impact the environment if thrown away. Return any unused or expired medicines to local pharmacies for safe disposal.
• Double-check at the pharmacy: Before leaving the pharmacy premises (building), check your bag and hand back any unwanted medicines for reuse.

Your medicines and hospital care

• Keep a list of your medicines, dosages, and how you take them in your wallet or purse.
• If you’re going into hospital, take your current supply of medicines with you so staff know exactly what you’re taking — this can speed up your treatment and reduce duplication.
• Before discharge, ask if any changes have been made to your medication. Make sure you leave with the correct medicines and understand any updates.

Reduce waste with a conversation

• Let your pharmacy team know if you’ve stopped taking any of your medicines or if they’re no longer right for you. It’s not a problem, and in fact, helps them give you the best care.
• Unused or out-of-date medicines can be returned to your pharmacy for safe disposal.

If you have any questions or want to know more about reducing medicines waste, contact: stw.patientservices@nhs.net