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: SystmOnline
SystmOnline
These accounts show you all your repeat medicine and dosage and you can choose the ones you need.
You can also order repeat prescriptions in a number of ways:
- By Hand – drop your repeat slip in at reception with the required items clearly marked. If the surgery is closed use the letter box to the right of the main door – bring the paper form to the surgery, Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 6.00pm
- By Telephone – 0191 2362366
- By Email – [email protected]
- Using the Online Prescription service – SystmOnline
Please note telephone calls may be recorded
Collecting your prescription
We aim to complete all standard (within authorisation) repeat prescription requests within 2 working days, depending on when it is ordered. (Many are done the same day)
Please try to order 5-7 days before you run out, this way you will not be inconvenienced if there are any unexpected delays.
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
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:
- Phone our pharmacist after 8:30am on 0191 236 2366; or
- Complete an eConsult
Medication reviews
A GP will review your records when your medication review date has past. You may be asked to come in and have a medication review at this time, but this is often not required if you maintain your appointments for your health reviews in the practice.
Please note that medication issues may be declined if you have failed to attend review appointments. This is for your own safety
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.
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.
How to obtain urgent medication
If you run out of your medicines during normal opening hours, please contact the Health Centre and we will endeavor to have your prescription ready that day.
Patients will generally need to collect the paper prescription from the Health Centre, in cases of housebound patients we will endeavor to fax the prescription to the chemist for delivery.
If you run out of your medicines outside normal opening hours and need some urgently, there are a few ways to get an emergency supply quickly, including if you’re away from home.
If you already have a prescription and urgently need the medicines, try the following steps:
If your local pharmacy is closed, use the link to find other nearby pharmacies and their opening hours. Some are open until midnight or later, even on public holidays.
http://www.nhs.uk/Service-Search/Pharmacy/LocationSearch/10
If you would prefer to speak to someone first, call NHS 111, they will also be able to look up an out-of-hours pharmacy or service in your area for you.