Prescriptions

How to order your repeat prescriptions

  • online
  • in person at the surgery
  • by post

It can also be requested using:

The tear-off side-slip from a previous prescription (tick the items needed)
or
A written note with name, date of birth, contact telephone number and list of items needed.

Telephone requests will not be accepted.

Please allow a minimum of 48 hours for prescription requests to be dealt with.

Only the following medications are exceptions to the 48 hour rule:

Anticonvulsants (for epilepsy), Warfarin, Insulin, Antipsychosis medication and Ventolin (for acute problems only).

OOH should not be used to request medication unless it is listed above

Prescriptions ordered Before 3pm Ready after 3pm on
Monday Wednesday
Tuesday Thursday
Wednesday Friday
Thursday Monday
Friday Tuesday
Saturday Wednesday
Sunday Wednesday

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.

There is further information about prescription exemptions and fees on the NHS website

Medication Reviews

Patients on repeat medication will be asked to see a doctor, nurse practitioner, practice nurse or our clinical pharmacist 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.

Quality Improvement in NHS Services

In recognition of the challenging financial situation that the NHS is facing, the Government has implemented a series of sweeping changes throughout the NHS with a view to making the service more efficient and cost effective.

Reducing Medicines Waste

Each year NHS Halton & St Helens spends around £60 million on medicines, however we know that at least £1.5 million worth of medicines each year are returned to pharmacies unused.  These medicines cannot be re-used and are destroyed.  Please ONLY order medication that you need and do not stockpile your medicines at home.  If there are medicines on your repeat prescription that you no longer take, please inform your doctor, practice nurse or pharmacy.  Thank you.

Efficient and Effective Prescribing

You may find some of your regular medication is switched to a different product which will have exactly the same effect but will cost the NHS less.  We will give you information about any changes.  If you have any concerns please discuss with your GP, Practice Nurse or pharmacist.