Changes to our Repeat Prescription request process

Posted by: philheiden - Posted on:

Dear Patients,

It is likely unbeknown to you, but the way in which you request your repeat prescriptions has significant implications on our workforce, the turnaround speed of your request and in some cases, risks exposing your request to the potential for human error.

To try and run the system as safely and effectively as possible, we are reducing the number of ways in which patients can now request their repeat prescriptions. This will now be limited to:

  • The NHS App (accessible with Mobile or Desktop computer access) / Patient Access. Our preferred method
  • Alternatively, please attend the Practice and complete an over counter paper form / use the post-box

We have been able to successfully increase our GP workforce meaning we are now able to bring the signing of your repeat prescriptions back in house (previously completed by a designated off site prescribing Pharmacist).

Requests via the NHS App or Patient Access now go electronically directly to your named GP and are signed off promptly (max 3 working days) whereas over the counter paper forms (and all other previous methods used) require our Receptionists to then manually input your request into the clinical system which causes delays, creates a degree of unnecessary workload and risks the possibility of human error.

For your information, please be aware, we will be removing our website repeat prescription ordering form from 15/05/2024.

We ask that where possible, you refrain from also requesting repeat prescriptions via a local Pharmacy unless they are able to send this to us electronically. Otherwise, this can cause delays in your requests getting to us and again this resorts in manual entry and possible human error our end.

Also please refrain from writing generic comments on your online requests such as ‘prescription order’ or ‘n/a’ – as this again slows down the process. There is no requirement to add a message, please only use this function if you are letting us know important information relating to your medication request.

We are making these changes, not to be difficult but in order to:

  • Improve clinical safety
  • Improve turnaround times (from request to medication being dispensed)
  • To free up AMC Receptionist time so that we can redirect saved hours into answering our phones more quickly
  • To keep up with digital healthcare technologies.

The NHS App now has so much to offer. If you don’t already have access please register now https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-app/about-the-nhs-app/

  • Find your personal NHS Number
  • NHS symptom checker
  • Order your repeat prescriptions, check if they have been approved and sent to the Pharmacy
  • View your consultations online
  • View your immunisation history
  • View your medical problem history
  • View your allergies
  • View and download your sick notes  
  • Change your nominated Pharmacy for prescription pickups
  • Book certain appointments
  • Look up hospital waiting times

Please note we do not take prescription requests over the phone or via email. Any requests trying to come in via these routes will be politely declined and pushed back.

It is possible for a nominated relative to have access to your NHS account (e.g for children or elderly patients) to make requests on your behalf. If you are in need of assistance with the NHS App then please let us know.

FAQs here: NHS App and your NHS account – NHS (www.nhs.uk)

Many thanks for your understanding,

AMC