Prescriptions

Ordering repeat prescriptions

The easiest ways to order repeat prescriptions are:

  • using your NHS account (through the NHS website or in the NHS App)
  • using the GP online system: SystmOnline

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

You can also write to the surgery, preferably using the printed counterfoil, or the form from reception.

Should you wish for your prescription to be posted to you, please enclose a stamped self-addressed envelope.

We do not take repeat prescription requests over the phone. This is to protect patients from potential error.

Collecting your prescription

Information:

You can usually collect your prescription 3 working days after you have ordered it.

Your signed prescription can be collected from the pharmacy of your choice within 4 working days.

If you would like your script to be kept at reception please indicate this clearly.

Please be aware that the pharmacy may require more time to process the prescription as they may need to order something in for you. This is out of our control.

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 any pharmacy that accepts repeat prescriptions
  • contact us

Pharmacies

The practice has links with several local pharmacies:

  • Shaunaks, 15 Bath Road Peasedown St John BA2 8DH – 01761 432235
  • Clements, Radstock 7 The Street Radstock BA3 3PL – 01761 434687

Please indicate the pharmacy of choice on your request. You can find a pharmacy close to you by using the NHS ‘find a pharmacy’ website.

There is always a pharmacy open in Bath on Sundays and bank holidays; usually 11:00 am to midday and 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm.

You are also able to use an online pharmacy. Contact us.

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 think that you require a medication review or advice about your medications please contact reception. Our inhouse pharmacist and pharmacy technician will help you.

Medication reviews

Patients on repeat medication will be asked to talk to a practice pharmacist, pharmacy technician, practice nurse, or more rarely a GP 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. Messages may be sent via text or on your repeat prescription slip to remind you when you need a medication review. You can also access your medical record online, e.g. via the NHS app.

Please do not take offense if we require you to make an appointment prior to receiving your medication. We need to make sure that we are keeping you safe and that you are on the most appropriate treatment for you. You may require a blood test, a blood pressure check, or an appointment with the clinical pharmacist.

Prescription charges

Charges apply in England only. In Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales prescriptions are free of charge.

Fees for prescriptions can be found on the NHS website.

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.

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.

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.

About pharmacists

Pharmacy first

Patients can now get treatment for seven common conditions directly from their local pharmacy, without the need for a GP appointment or prescription. Your receptionist will complete a referral form for you which will be dealt with on the same day by the community pharmacist.

Pharmacy first enables community pharmacists to supply prescription only medicines (including antibiotics and antivirals where clinically appropriate) to treat seven common health conditions without the need to visit a GP.

  • What are the seven common conditions?
  • Sore throat
  • Earache
  • Infected insect bite
  • Impetigo (a bacterial skin infection)
  • Shingles
  • Urinary tract infections in women
  • Sinusitis

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 room where you can discuss issues with pharmacy staff.