Prescriptions
Ordering repeat prescriptions
Please order your medication ONLINE wherever possible. You have two options for this:
1) If you have a smartphone or tablet, download the NHS App and set up an account. You can do this yourself and do not need to contact the practice.
2) If you do not have a smartphone or tablet but you do have a computer with internet access you can order medication via our website. First you need to contact reception to set up an account. They will give you the details you need once you have verified your identity. To order your medication once your account is set up, click here and follow the prompts.
Please get in touch with reception if you need help with either of these methods. We would be very pleased to help you.
Ordering via your repeat slip
Repeat prescriptions are generated by computer with a side slip for you to keep, listing your medication. Please reserve this for ordering your repeat prescription a few days before you need further supplies
When you need a repeat of your medication, tick or circle the items needed, and post it through the box in the front door at the Surgery.
If there are any unusual requests, please explain these fully on the form, to avoid any delays.
There are blank prescription request forms held at the dispensary desk for completion, for any other prescription requests.
For patients who are unable to use online services ONLY:
The practice operates a repeat ordering phone line 01458 253253 which is reserved for patients who do not have access to the internet and who cannot drop in their repeat slip. It is not an emergency order line. This line can get very busy, please only use it if you cannot use the other methods above. Repeat prescriptions requests are only taken on the 253253 telephone number, not on the main surgery number.
The repeat medication phone line is open from 9:30am – 11:00am. Please note this service is only for patients that are unable to order medication online or in person.
The prescription line is open:
Monday – Friday
9:30am – 11:00 am
It is closed at all other times
Prescription Quantities
Repeat Prescriptions: 28-day prescribing policy:
At Langport surgery, we follow a 28-day prescribing policy. The Department of Health states that “A 28-day repeat prescribing interval is recognised by the NHS as making the best possible balance between patient convenience, good medical practice and minimal drug wastage”.
This means that if you are prescribed a repeat medication, you will receive enough tablets for 28 days. For example, if your dose is 2 tablets per day, you will receive 56 tablets; if your dose is 3 tablets per day, you will receive 84 and so on.
Why we use 28-day prescribing:
- It reduces waste when medicines are stopped or changed.
- It helps us identify adherence issues more easily, as medication can be reviewed more regularly.
- It reduces duplicate medication packs, helping to avoid confusion, particularly for older patients.
Exceptions to the 28-day rule:
Some medications are not prescribed in 28-day quantities, including
- Treatments where packs are designed for longer durations, such as HRT or contraception.
- Medications supplied in special containers that cannot be opened or divided (e.g. certain tablets, liquids, inhalers, creams etc.)
- Medications suitable for original pack dispensing. If a medication is supplied in a pack of 30, for example, we will prescribe the full pack to ensure you receive the correct patient information leaflet, to improve dispensing accuracy and efficacy and to maintain patient safety.
Prescription Costs:
Most patients collecting repeat prescriptions to not pay prescription charges. If you do pay, and you need more than 3 items in 3 months or 11 items in 12 months, you may be able to save money by purchasing a Prescription Pre-Payment Certificate (PPC).
Holiday Medication Requests:
The British Medical Association (BMA) advises that the NHS can provide medication for patients who are travelling or moving abroad for up to three months. If you will be away longer than three months, you will need to arrange ongoing prescriptions in the country you are visiting, as the NHS cannot provide medication beyond this period.
GP practices, however, are not responsible for finding a doctor or ensuring medication supplies are available at your holiday destination. It is the patient’s responsibility to locate and register with a local doctor and to confirm that their regular medication will be available throughout their stay.
At Langport Surgery, and in line with our 28-day prescribing policy, we can issue a maximum of up to three times your usual monthly prescription quantity for overseas travel. For most patients, this means up to an 84-day supply.
Please note:
- NHS prescriptions cannot be collected by friends or family on behalf of a patient who is currently abroad, even if the patient owns a home in the UK or pays UK taxes.
- Patients are responsible for checking that any medication taken into another country complies with that country’s laws and regulations.
