Prescriptions
Urgent advice: Fraud alert - Pharmacy calls
Non-urgent advice: Repeat Prescriptions
We run a computerised repeat prescription system. This provides an attached slip containing all prescribed medicines authorized for repeat prescribing by your doctor. Ordering a repeat prescription is greatly simplified by submitting information contained on this slip.
You can obtain a repeat prescription by the following:
- By placing repeat prescription request form (i.e. the green tear off slip on the reverse of your prescription) into the repeat prescribing box in reception
- By post - please enclose s.a.e. if return postage is needed
- By asking at the front desk
- By the online prescription icon at top of this page (you must be registered for online to use this facility)
Please ensure that the items you require are requested clearly by ticking the appropriate box on the repeat request form, or if you do not have a repeat request form, please ensure that your name, address and the items you require are clearly indicated.
In order to process the large number of requests each day please note that 2 working days notice is required for repeat prescription requests.
The schedule for ordering and collection is therefore:
- Monday - Wednesday after 2pm
- Tuesday - Thurdays after 2pm
- Wednesday - Friday after 2pm
- Thursday- Monday after 2pm
- Friday - Tuesday after 2pm
Due to the high volume of requests received by the practice each day, you should note that you will be asked to call back if you request your prescription earlier than the times indicated above.
Patients should be aware that most pharmacies can now arrange for patients' prescriptions to be collected from the practice on their behalf. To arrange this please contact your own pharmacist directly.
Non-urgent advice: Electronic Prescribing Service
This practice is set up for the electronic prescription service.
This means that for most patients we can send your prescription to your chosen chemist directly saving you having to come down to the surgery.
To get your prescription sent to your chosen pharmacy you will have to ask reception to sign up.
For more information please click here.
Non-urgent advice: Medication Reviews
Your doctor will have authorised a certain number of repeat prescriptions. When these have been issued, your doctor will assess your need. Further repeat prescriptions may be authorised by them or you may be asked to attend the surgery for a review of your condition.
Non-urgent advice: Prescription Fees
Help with NHS costs
In England, around 90% of prescription items are dispensed free. This includes exemptions from charging for those on low incomes, such as:
- those on specific benefits or through the NHS Low Income Scheme
- those who are age exempt
- those with certain medical conditions
- More information is available at NHS Choices
Non-urgent advice: NHS Charges
These charges apply in England only. In Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales prescriptions are free of charge.
- Prescription (per item): £9.90
- 12-month prepayment certificate (PPC): £114.50
- 3-month PPC: £32.05
- a hormone replacement therapy (HRT) PPC costs £19.80
If you will have to pay for four or more prescription items in three months or more than 14 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.
Our Policy on Diazepam for Fear of Flying
Our Policy on Diazepam for Fear of Flying
We understand that many people feel anxious about flying, and this can sometimes make travel very stressful. However, after careful review, our doctors have agreed that we will no longer prescribe diazepam for fear of flying.
Diazepam is a controlled medicine in the UK and is tightly regulated. Its use must follow strict medical and NHS rules.
If you are looking for help with flight anxiety, we recommend the alternative resources and courses listed below. Some patients may also wish to seek advice from a private GP. Pharmacists may also be able to suggest non-prescription remedies.
Why we no longer prescribe diazepam for flying
- Risks during a flight: Diazepam can cause drowsiness, slower reactions, and poor concentration. This may put you at risk if an emergency happens in the air, or if you are caring for children while travelling.
- Problems at the border: Some countries have strict rules about medicines like diazepam. Taking it abroad without the right documents could result in confiscation or legal problems. You can read more at the NaTHNaC Travel Pro website.
- NHS rules on prescribing: NHS prescriptions are not provided for problems that are only expected to happen abroad, such as flight anxiety. Fear of flying is also not included in the NHS General Medical Services (GMS) contract.
- What the medical guidelines say: The British National Formulary (BNF), which doctors must follow, advises that benzodiazepines like diazepam should not be used for mild, short-term anxiety. They are only recommended in cases such as severe insomnia or acute episodes of generalised anxiety disorder. Fear of flying on its own does not fall into these categories.
Where to get help instead
Although we are unable to prescribe diazepam, there are effective and safe ways to manage flight anxiety.
- How to manage a fear of flying and flying anxiety | Patient
- Fearless Flyer Course – easyJet
- Flying With Confidence – British Airways
- Flying Without Fear
- Air Travel – Fit for Travel
What this means for you
- We will not issue diazepam on NHS prescription for fear of flying.
- If you still wish to pursue this option, you may choose to discuss it with a private GP.
- We encourage you to explore the resources above, which many people find helpful.
- You can also speak to your pharmacist about over-the-counter remedies that may help with relaxation.
Lost or Stolen Prescriptions
Page created: 28 April 2022