Repeat prescriptions
Repeat prescriptions are generally given for periods of between one and three months, sometimes longer.
Repeat prescriptions should balance patient convenience with clinical appropriateness, cost-effectiveness and patient safety. For example, where a patient’s condition is stable, it may be appropriate to issue prescriptions for longer periods, and this would be discussed and agreed with the doctor.
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: Patient Access
- fill out a repeat prescriptions request form
- in person – handing the receptionist the tear-off portion of your last prescription
- in writing – sending either the tear-off portion of your last prescription or a written request by email or post
We do not take repeat prescription requests over the phone.
Collecting your prescription
You can usually collect your prescription 4 working days after you have ordered it.
This time reflects the amount of care we need to take in order to produce your prescription safely; therefore please order your medication in plenty of time.
If you would like us to post your prescription to you, please enclose a stamped addressed envelope.
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
- fill out a nominate a pharmacy form
- at any pharmacy that accepts repeat prescriptions
Your local pharmacy can collect your prescription for you!
Alternatively, if you prefer paper to electronic prescriptions, we can arrange for one of our local pharmacies to collect your prescription from the surgery. All of the local pharmacies listed below collect prescriptions from us on a regular basis.
If you would like to use this service, let us know which pharmacy is your preferred destination and we will ensure your prescription is added to that pharmacy’s collection box.
The pharmacies who collect prescriptions from us are:
- Herbert and Shrive Pharmacy
- Boots, Kingston (Union Street)
- Boots, Kingston (Bentalls Centre)
- Boots, Teddington
- Kirby Pharmacy
- Maple Leaf Pharmacy
- KC Pharmacy
- Teddington Pharmacy
Batch prescribing prescriptions
Batch prescribing is a system where patient prescriptions can be produced for scheduled collection over a six month period. The six months of prescriptions are sent to an agreed nominated pharmacy where the patient is given a ‘collection slip’ which must be presented to the pharmacy each time further supplies of medications are due.
If you, or someone you care for, uses the same medicines regularly, you may be able to benefit from Batch prescribing. This scheme means you won’t have to visit the surgery or make an appointment every time you need more medication.
Each time you visit the pharmacy, they will check that the medicines are still needed and are being used appropriately. It is also an opportunity to make better use of pharmacists’ skills by helping patients get the most out of their medicines.
If you would like more information about this service, please contact us or alternatively book an appointment with a doctor.
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.
If you would like to speak to someone at the GP surgery about your prescription:
- fill out an ask a prescription question form
Medication reviews
If you have a repeat prescription, we may ask you to come in for a regular review. We will be in touch when you need to come in for a review.
Prescription charges
Find out more about prescription charges.
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
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.
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.