Repeat Prescriptions

If you are taking regular medication your doctor may decide to start a repeat prescription for it. This means that you will be able to order regular medication monthly or two monthly without having to see a doctor every time.

Certain medications are not appropriate for repeat prescriptions and you doctor will let you know if this is the case.

To order medication tick the box next to the ones you require and put the list into the box at reception, or post with a stamped addressed envelope.

You may also order securely online via the link at the top of this page. Please note you must register with the practice with identification to receive a login and password to be able to use this service; read more.

We do not accept telephone requests to reduce the chance of errors.

Collections

The prescription should be ready to collect after 48 hours and we would be grateful if this could be after 14:00. Please request your medication in good time. Do not wait until there is only one day left. Allow for extra time for postal requests. Alternatively you may wish to arrange for your chemist to collect your repeat prescription for you.

Medication Reviews

Patients on repeat medication will be asked to see a doctor, nurse practitioner or practice nurse at least once a year to review these regular medications and notification should appear on your repeat slip.

Please ensure that you book an appropriate appointment to avoid unnecessary delays to further prescriptions.

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): £9.65
• 12-month prepayment certificate (PPC): £111.60
• 3-month PPC: £31.25

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

Hay fever medication

In accordance with the CCG and NHS England the Practice is no longer routinely prescribing hay fever medications. If treatment if treatment is needed a wide range of medications are available to buy at pharmacies, supermarkets and other stores without a prescription. For further information please read the hay fever patient information leaflet

Fear of flying

As a Practice we will no longer be prescribing a sedative called Diazepam for fear of flying. We appreciate that fear of flying is a phobia and frightening, however there are good reasons for not prescribing this drug and there are alternatives available. For further information please read fear of flying patient leaflet

or

119 More drug treatment courses for breast cancer or

1,780 More drug treatment courses for Alzheimer’s or

1,852 More cataract operations

The NHS in County Durham spent £1.78m last year on a product

Opioid for patients

Painkillers Don't Exist Campaign

NHS Campaign to highlight the risks of long term use of pain medication. Please click the link below to access the campaign.

www.painkillersdontexist.com

Do you really need paracetamol on prescription?

Last year County Durham GP practices spent £1.78m supplying paracetamol on prescription.

Did you know a box of 32 paracetamol on prescription costs the NHS approximately three times as much as it does to buy the tablets from a pharmacy or supermarket?

Please read this poster about how the cost of paracetamol could be better used within the NHS. Please help us reduce waste by only ordering what you need on prescription and not sharing your medication - it is prescribed only for you.