Over the coming weeks, we will be introducing a safer and more streamlined way to request repeat prescriptions.

Following a review of an incident regarding prescription requests, there is a need to ensure all future prescriptions are issued safely to reduce the risk of medication errors.  Routine repeat prescriptions should now be requested using the NHS App wherever possible.

Ordering through the NHS App ensures:
• Clear and accurate medication selection
• Reduced risk of miscommunicating drug names or doses
• A secure digital confirmation of your medication request
• Safe and efficient processing

If you are unable to see an item on your NHS App, or if your request relates to a non-repeat medication or a medication query, please submit this via eConsult.  We will gradually be moving away from taking routine repeat prescription requests over the telephone as part of this safety improvement.

We recognise that some patients may have specific access needs or vulnerabilities that make digital ordering difficult. In such circumstances, we will make reasonable adjustments on an individual basis. Where alternative arrangements are agreed, this will be documented in the patient record to ensure appropriate ongoing support.

If you would like support getting set up on the NHS App, we are offering 1-to-1 appointments with our IT support team based at the Practice. Please contact reception if you would like assistance.

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.

What does this mean for you?

You will have more choice about where to get your medicines from because they can be collected from a pharmacy near to where you live, work or shop.

For further information on:

• Choosing a pharmacy or other dispenser
• Cancelling or changing your choice of pharmacist or dispenser
• What can I do if I'm unhappy with the process?

Go to Electronic prescriptions .nhs.uk.

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.

• Go to Medicines A to Z (nhs.uk)

If you would like to speak to someone at the GP surgery about your prescription:

• Please submit this using the link https://drrasibandpartners.webgp.com/
• Or please contact the practice on 01543 222 017

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.

Find out more about prescription charges (nhs.uk).

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.

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.

• Find a pharmacy (nhs.uk)

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.