Prescriptions

Ordering your prescription
We are unable to take prescription request by telephone

You can order your repeat prescription by any of the following methods: the easiest ways to order repeat prescriptions are:

• using your NHS account (through the NHS website or in the NHS App)
• using your SystmOnline login
• using the GP online system: Accurx
  
• Posting your request to the surgery. You may use the tear-off section from your previous prescription to do this or you can send a letter.
• Hand your request in to the reception team at the surgery
• emailing your request to: cpicb.prescriptions.eastbarnwellhealthcentre@nhs.net (include your name, date of birth and medication required)

Whichever method you choose to order your prescription please give at least 3 working days notice.

If you have arranged for a pharmacy to dispense your prescription please allow at least 3 working days when you order your prescription.

Collecting your Prescription
You can usually collect your prescription from the pharmacy 3 working days after you have ordered it.

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
• at your GP practice
• at any pharmacy that accepts repeat prescriptions

28 Day Prescribing
NHS Cambridgeshire and Peterborough recommends a 28-day interval as a standard treatment length for repeat prescriptions as this provides the best possible balance between patient convenience, good medical practice, and minimal drug wastage. This includes any controlled drugs (including oral and patches).

The possible waste generated by prescriptions that are greater than 28-day intervals is very much against the principal of safeguarding NHS resources. This is in line with national Department of Health guidance and applies to all prescribing within the ICS.

The NHS Cambridgeshire and Peterborough 28-day policy was introduced to focus on:

• improved patient safety
• reducing medication wastage, particularly from stockpiled medicines or when medicines are stopped/changed
• better co-ordination of treatment
• supporting regular medication review and convenience
• maintaining medication supplies at times of shortage

When collecting your prescription from the Pharmacist, confirm the items you’re collecting before you make payment. The Practice does not issue refunds for medications.

How to query your medication
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:

• phone our pharmacist after 10am on 0123 445 6678

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 (nhs.uk).

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.

• 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.