Repeat Prescriptions

What is repeat prescribing?

Sometimes we might need to give you a medication for a long time, or even for the rest of your life. We provide this as a repeat prescription. This means you do not have to see somebody every time you need more medication. We authorise a fixed number of prescriptions you can have before we need to see you again for a review.

We ask patients on repeat medication to visit the practice at least once a year for a review. A notification should appear on your repeat slip when this is due. We may also send you an invite by text message. Please book your review appointment quickly to avoid any delays to further prescriptions.

How to request your repeat prescription

• In person – drop your repeat slip in at reception with the required items clearly marked.
• By post – send it to us with a stamped addressed envelope if you want us to post it back to you.
• Online – use Patient Access or the NHS app.
• Email – cmccg.prescriptionsgorton@nhs.net

Please allow two full working days for us to process your prescription request. Remember to take weekends and bank holidays into account.

Nominating a pharmacy

The NHS has an Electronic Prescription Service. This allows us to send your prescriptions direct to a pharmacy. You do not have to visit the practice to collect a paper prescription. You can choose a pharmacy where you want us to send your prescriptions.

You can choose or change your pharmacy in the following ways.

• By telephone on 0161 223 1113 during our opening times.
• By visiting the reception desk during our opening times.
• Using the NHS app.
• Using Patient Access.

How to ask a question about your medication

• In person – speak to a receptionist at the practice during our opening times.
• Telephone – call us on 0161 223 1113 during our opening times.
• Email – cmccg.prescriptionsgorton@nhs.net

Please allow two full working days for us to respond. Remember to take weekends and bank holidays into account.

Over the counter medicines

We will generally not give you a prescription for over-the-counter (OTC) medicines for a range of minor health conditions.

This is because of government policy to reduce the amount of money the NHS spends on prescriptions for treating minor conditions that usually get better on their own.

You can read more about this on the NHS website using the link below.

https://www.nhs.uk/common-health-questions/medicines/why-cant-i-get-prescription-over-counter-medicine/

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

Pharmacists are experts in medicines who can help you with minor health concerns.

As qualified healthcare professionals, they can offer clinical advice and over-the-counter medicines for a range of minor illnesses, such as coughs, colds, sore throats, tummy trouble and aches and pains.

If symptoms suggest it's something more serious, pharmacists have the right training to make sure you get the help you need. For example they will tell you if you need to see a GP, nurse or other healthcare professional.

All pharmacists train for 5 years in the use of medicines. They are also trained in managing minor illnesses and providing health and wellbeing advice.

Many pharmacies are open until late and at weekends. You do not need an appointment.

Most pharmacies have a private consultation room where you can discuss issues with pharmacy staff without being overheard.

Use the tool below to find a pharmacy near you.