Prescriptions

Ordering repeat prescriptions

The easiest ways to order repeat prescriptions are:

Please indicate where you would like your medicine dispensed as it can be sent directly to the dispensary or pharmacy. For almost all patients living in B&NES this will be a local Pharmacist.

You can also:

  • post your request for a prescription (but not medicines) to the surgery, please enclose a stamped addressed envelope for return

We do not take repeat prescription requests over the phone.

Collecting your prescription

Patients living in Somerset (and a small number in B&NES who live more than a mile from the nearest Pharmacy) can have medication dispensed from Chilcompton Surgery. This is particularly convenient for those who find it difficult to get into Midsomer Norton, and medication prescribed during a consultation will often be available to take away within minutes of seeing the doctor. We also provide a Dosette box service from Chilcompton.

Information:

You can usually collect your prescription after 2 working days from the surgery.

Allow at least 3 working days if collecting your medication directly from the dispensary/chemist indicated.

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 any pharmacy that accepts repeat prescriptions
  • speak to your doctor or ask a receptionist

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.

Go to Medicines A to Z (nhs.uk)

If you would like to speak to someone at the GP surgery about your prescription:

Medication reviews

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.

Prescription charges

Fees for prescriptions can be found on the NHS website.

If you will have to pay for four or more prescription items in three months, or more than 15 items in 12 months, you may find it cheaper to buy a PPC.

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.

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.

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 room where you can discuss issues with pharmacy staff.