Prescriptions

ELECTRONIC PRESCRIPTIONS -EPS4

We are upgrading to the next phase of the Electronic Prescription Service (EPS) which will mean that almost all our prescriptions will be processed electronically

Read more about EPS on the NHS website.

Prescription requests before 12:00noon will be ready the next working day after 3:00pm.

All our repeat prescriptions are recorded on the computer. You will receive a print-out of the items that you can request with your prescription. It is not usual practice to order medications that are not on your repeat slip and if you wish to order any medication not on your repeat slip, please contact Reception.

To order a further supply of medication please tick the items that you need, which can be found on the right hand side of your prescripton, and hand in or post to the surgery ensuring you do this in plenty of time so that you do not run out of your medication, especially if you are making the request by post.  If you wish us to post your prescription back to you, please include a Stamped Addressed Envelope.

Alternatively you can order prescriptions online using the Patient Access  service.  You will need to obtain a registration letter from Reception before using this service for the first time. These cannot be posted out or given to anyone except the patient themselves.

It is not possible to order repeat prescriptions by telephone unless you are housebound, and you have received authorisation from the GP.

Pharmacies

Pharmacies are not permitted to order your medication on your behalf, unless authorised to do so by one of the GP’s.

Medication Reviews

Patients on repeat medication will be asked to see a doctor, nurse practitioner or practice nurse at least once a year to review these regular medications and notification should appear on your repeat slip to make a routine appointment.

Please ensure that you book an appropriate appointment to avoid unnecessary delays to further prescriptions.

CHANGES TO YOUR MEDICATION

From time to time your medication may change:-

• From a tablet to capsule or vice versa
• From one brand to another
• Another equivalent medication

Your doctor will only do this if the new medication is as good as or better at treating your condition.

Making such changes helps to ensure that every penny spent on your local NHS is spent wisely.

This practice participates in the Wirral Prescribing Incentive Scheme. This scheme aims to increase the quality and cost effectiveness of prescribing

.If you have any queries about these changes to your medication please speak to a member of staff at the practice or if you prefer your local pharmacist.

Prescriptions Charges and Exemptions

Extensive exemption and remission arrangements protect those likely to have difficulty in paying charges (NHS prescription and dental charges, optical and hospital travel costs).

The NHS prescription charge is a flat-rate amount which successive Governments have thought it reasonable to charge for those who can afford to pay for their medicines. Prescription prepayment certificates (PPCs) offer real savings for people who need extensive medication.

NHS charges

These charges apply in England only. In Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales prescriptions are free of charge. From 1st April 2014 the following charges apply:

• Prescription (per item): £9.00
• 3 month pre-payment certificate (PPC) £29.10
• 12 month pre-payment certificate (PPC) £104.00

If you will have to pay for 4 or more prescription items in three months, or 13 or more in 12 months, you may find it cheaper to buy a PPC.

• Telephone advice and order line 0845 850 0030
• General Public – Buy or Renew a PPC On-line

There is further information about prescription exemptions and fees on the NHS website