Prescriptions

We run a computerised system to issue repeat prescriptions.

When the prescription is first added onto the computer an “authorised number of repeats” will be allowed. When you have had this number of repeats a medation review wil be due. This review will be with our pharmacist via a telephone consultation. Once the review has been completed the Doctor will then adjust your medication if necessary and re-authorise your repeats. To book please request a medication review

Prescription Requests – Important Information for Patients

Why we do not accept prescription requests over the phone

For patient safety and accuracy, we do not take prescription requests by telephone. Telephone requests can lead to:

  • Errors with medication names, doses, or quantities
  • Misunderstandings about which items are required
  • Increased risk of mistakes that could affect your health

Written requests help ensure prescriptions are processed safely, efficiently, and accurately, and allow clinicians to review your request properly.

The best ways to request a prescription

Please use one of the following methods:

  • ✅ Online via our website
  • ✅ In writing, by completing a prescription request slip and handing it in or posting it to the practice
  • ✅ Using the NHS App, if you are registered

These methods create a clear record and help us process your request as quickly as possible.

Additional information

  • Please allow sufficient notice for prescription requests, especially at weekends or during bank holidays. 
  • Requests for non‑repeat or urgent medications may need a clinician’s review before they can be issued.
  • The reception team is happy to advise on how to submit a request, but they are unable to request prescriptions on your behalf over the phone.

Thank you for your understanding and helping us keep our prescribing safe.

When will my Prescription be ready?

Prescriptions will be ready for collection from your nominated pharmacy

Prescriptions normally take up to two working days to process.

If you feel your prescription request is urgent, please let the reception team know. However, we cannot guarantee that an urgent request will be ready on the same day.

The duty doctor will assess the request and decide how urgent it is and whether the medication is medically required on the day.

For those that request their prescription be sent to a local pharmacy then the time will be dependent on that pharmacy. Please contact the relevant pharmacy for an indication of the timescale.

Electronic Prescriptions Service

The Electronic Prescription Service (EPS) is an NHS service. It gives you the chance to change how your GP sends your prescription to the place you choose to get your medicines or appliances from.

Register for electronic prescribing.

Good Medication Management is Important

Please pre-empt ordering prescriptions to avoid medication running out.

If you are given 56 days of tablets and you have 7 days left, order your new prescription. In the case of any emergency your regular pharmacist will give you a couple of tablets until you get your new prescription.

It is good practice that repeat medication is regularly reviewed so that you get optimum care. Please make a note of the review date and make an appointment to see the doctor.

If you are going on holiday you should take a list of your medication/s with you. In case you have a problem ensure you have enough medication to cover your holiday. Some countries also need a Doctor’s letter to explain the medication. Check with your travel agent. Please note if a letter is required there will be a fee for this letter as it is not covered under NHS contractual requirement.

If you have elderly relatives ensure that they have an adequate supply of their medication. Dossette boxes/blister packs can be arranged if they have a large amount of medication to take. Please discuss with the pharmacy.

Useful Information

Each drug has two names – the generic and the brand name. Where possible we use the generic name because this is usually much cheaper for the health service. Due to this, you may notice a change in colour, shape or size of your drug. Do not be concerned by this, you are still receiving the same drug of the same quality, it is only the appearance that has altered.

Please request your medication review consultation at least 10 days before your medication runs out.

Free NHS Prescriptions – Who Is Entitled and How to Claim

In England, many patients do not have to pay for their NHS prescriptions. You may be entitled to free prescriptions if you meet one of the criteria below.

Who is entitled to free NHS prescriptions?

You are entitled to free NHS prescriptions if you are:

✅ Age‑based

✅ Pregnant or recently had a baby

  • Pregnant, or
  • Had a baby in the last 12 months,
    and you hold a valid Maternity Exemption Certificate [nhsbsa.nhs.uk]

✅ Receiving certain benefits

You are entitled if you (or your partner) receive:

  • Income Support
  • Income‑based Jobseeker’s Allowance
  • Income‑related Employment and Support Allowance
  • Pension Credit – Guarantee Credit
  • Universal Credit, if your earnings are below the NHS threshold [nhsbsa.nhs.uk], [nhsbsa.nhs.uk]

✅ Medical exemption

You may be entitled if you have certain long‑term medical conditions and hold a valid Medical Exemption Certificate, such as:

  • Cancer or the effects of cancer treatment
  • Diabetes (not diet‑controlled)
  • Epilepsy requiring ongoing medication
  • Hypothyroidism requiring hormone replacement
    (There is a specific list of qualifying conditions.) [nhsbsa.nhs.uk]

✅ Other exemptions

  • You hold a War Pension Exemption Certificate (for an accepted disability)
  • You receive full help through the NHS Low Income Scheme (HC2 certificate) [nhsbsa.nhs.uk]

How do I claim free prescriptions?

  • When collecting your prescription, tick the correct exemption category on the prescription form.
  • You may be asked to show proof, such as:
    • An exemption certificate
    • A benefit award notice
    • Proof of age or education status

⚠️ Important: Incorrectly claiming free prescriptions may result in an NHS penalty charge. Always check you are eligible before claiming. [nhsbsa.nhs.uk]

Not sure if you’re entitled?

You can check online using the official NHS tool:

Where can I get a Medical Exemption Certificate form?

If you are eligible for a medical exemption certificate, the application form is called FP92A.

✅ How to obtain the form

  • The FP92A form is provided by your GP surgery or hospital doctor
  • A doctor or authorised clinician must complete and sign the form to confirm your medical condition
  • Patients cannot download and submit the form themselves without GP involvement 

✅ What happens next?

  • Once the form is completed, it is sent to the NHS Business Services Authority (NHSBSA)
  • Your exemption certificate is usually issued within 10 working days
  • The certificate is normally valid for 5 years 

✅ If you need medication before the certificate arrives

  • You will need to pay for the prescription
  • Ask the pharmacy for an FP57 refund receipt
  • You can claim a refund once your certificate is issued (if the dates overlap) 

✅ Need more information?

Date Published: 10th April, 2025
Date Last Updated: 15th April, 2026