Click here to access the online repeat prescription formWhat is a repeat prescription?
If you are prescribed regular medicines, your doctor may decide that you should have a repeat prescription. This means that you do not have to see a doctor or nurse every time you need a prescription renewed.
Your condition will still need to be monitored by the nurse or doctor, so you will need to make an appointment from time to time, in order for us to continue giving you repeat prescriptions.
How do I request my repeat prescription?
Before you run out of medicine you will need to fill in a request form (the tear-off slip that was attached to your last prescription).
You need to submit the tear-off slip to the Health Centre for your next repeat prescription. Telephone requests will not be accepted.
We need at least 2 working days notice to provide a repeat prescription, so please try to plan ahead. Ideally, please submit your request 5 days before you are due to run out of medication.
How do I complete the request form?
1. Tick which medicines you are requesting
Each item (medicine) you require must be marked with a tick. If nothing is marked we assume nothing is required.
On the right of every drug on the request form there is a mark like this [ ] which means it is an officially repeatable item.
If you have lost your request form then a blank slip is available at from the reception desk.
2. Tick a collection point
We can arrange for your repeat prescription to be delivered directly to a pharmacy of your choice; Lloyds and Boots.You will need to allow a further two days before collecting your medication so that the pharmacy has sufficient time to prepare your prescription.
If you do not tick a box we assume that you will be collecting your prescription from the reception desk.
3. How do I know when I am due a review?
If you are due a review please make an appointment. If your review date has expired, a receptionist will tell you how to obtain a further prescription. This may involve making an appointment. If you need your medication before that appointment please tell the dispenser and they will organise what to do next.
How do I submit the request form to the practice?
Online: visit http://www.salisburywalkincentre.co.uk, select the prescription page and complete the electronic request form
In person: drop the request form into the collection box in the lobby at the practice. If the Health Centre is closed you can put it in the posting box on the outside wall. This box is emptied on a daily basis
By post: please address the envelope to “Prescriptions” at Salisbury Walk-in Health Centre.
By fax: send the request form to Salisbury Walk-in Health Centre on 01794 885271. Please note on the fax “For Prescription”
If you are requesting a prescription before you have used the previous supply you should tell us the reason, otherwise we may be unable to issue another until the due date.
What should I do if I want to change my medication?
If you would like to make any changes to your prescription, you must speak with a doctor or nurse. The receptionists only generate and process the prescriptions that are authorised.
When do I collect my prescription?
Please collect your prescription at least 24 hours after submitting it to the Health Centre (or 7 days if you have posted your request).
Why does it take 24 hours to process a prescription?
Each request has to be checked against the patient's records to ensure that it is legitimate and appropriate. When this has been confirmed the prescription is printed and authorised. They are then sorted according to whether the medicines are to be collected from the Health Centre or sent to a local pharmacy.
Many requests generate queries or problems that only a doctor or nurse can sort out. To do this job efficiently takes about 24 hours. Of course, in an emergency we can produce a prescription quickly, but the disruption it causes to the smooth running of things only causes more delay for other patients.
Please note that your consumption of medication is checked regularly and inconsistencies will be discussed with you. We normally issue sufficient for a month.
Hints and Tips?
- Please do not over order medicine
- Please request only the items needed
- Do not hoard medicines at home “just in case” as it is unsafe and results in considerable wastage and therefore expense to the NHS
- If you choose not to take any of your medicines please tell the doctor or nurse
- If you are going into hospital, make sure you take your repeat prescription request with you
Who is entitled to free prescriptions?
Certain groups of people are entitled to free prescriptions. These include:
- People aged under 16 or in full-time education up to the age of 18
- People aged 60 or over
- People receiving Income Support, income based Job Seekers’ Allowance, or some other benefits
- People with certain medical conditions can get a Medical Exemption Certificate
- Pregnant women can get a Maternity Exemption Certificate
- People on low income can apply for certificate HC2
When you collect your prescription, you will need to provide evidence to show that you are entitled to free prescriptions. If you can't get free prescriptions, but you need regular medication, a Pre-payment Certificate may save you money. Ask at the reception desk for details.