Prescriptions

If you require regular medication the doctor will enter the details into your medical record which will enable you to obtain your medication by  requesting monthly 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

These accounts show you all your repeat medicine and dosage and you can choose the ones you need.

You can also:

• email your Repeat Prescription Form to chafford.prescriptions@nhs.net 
• bring/post the paper form to the surgery, Monday to Friday from 8am to 6.30pm

We do not take repeat prescription requests over the phone.

You can usually collect your prescription from the pharmacy 3 to 5 working days after you have ordered it. Remember, you can order your repeat prescriptions up to 10 days in advance.

If your request is submitted after 11.30am please allow another 24 hours. Remember to make allowances for weekends and public holidays.

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

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 the surgery after 10am on 01375 480000
• submit a query on eConsult

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:

• Sinusitis,
• Sore throat or earache (children aged 1-18 years)
• Infected insect bites
• Impetigo
• Shingles
• Urine infection (women aged 16-65 years)

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.

They are able to prescribe antibiotics when needed with the normal prescription charge.

How Pharmacies Can Help