REPEAT PRESCRIPTIONS

Patients on regular medication will require repeat prescriptions.  Your doctor will have entered onto the computer the details of the medication you are taking and each time a new prescription is written by the computer, a new request form is also generated for you to make your next request.

Requests for repeat prescriptions are not taken over the telephone.  This is for medico-legal reasons as errors can occur in verbal communication.

You can fax (fax number: 01249 701389), post or bring your repeat prescription request into the surgery.

• Allow 2 working days (48 hours) for your prescription to be processed.
• If you have more than one repeat prescription, please try and order all your items together.
• Tick which items on the request slip you require
• Clearly indicate where you would like the prescription form sent on the ‘Repeat Prescription form.  If you omit to indicate where you would like to collect the prescription, it will be left at the reception desk as default.

You can collect your prescription as follows:
a)            From the reception desk
b)            From a nominated chemist on the repeat prescription form. 
c)            We can post the prescription direct to your home address if you enclose a stamped addressed envelope.

PRESCRIPTION CHARGES
You get free NHS prescriptions if, at the time the prescription is dispensed to you, you:

• Are under 16 (or under 18 if in full-time education).
• Are over 60 years of age
• Are pregnant or have had a baby in the last 12 months and have a valid exemption certificate
• Have a listed medical condition and have a valid exemption certificate
• Have a continuing physical disability which means you cannot go out without help from another person and have a valid exemption certificate
• Are an NHS in-patient
• Are getting, or your partner gets:

Income support
Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (Incapacity Benefit or Disability Living Allowance do not count, as they are not income related)
Pension Credit Guarantee Credit

• Are entitled to, or named on, a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate
• Are named on a valid HC2 certificate
• Are a war pensioner, the prescription is for your accepted disablement and you have a valid war pensions exemption certificate.

For further information check on the Department of Health web site:  www.dh.gov.uk

PRESCRIPTION PRE-PAYMENT CERTIFICATE

It is sometimes worthwhile buying a season ticket (PPC) for pre-payment of prescription charges.
A prescription charge (April 2006) is £6.40 per item.
People who have to pay for more than 5 prescription items in 4 months, or 14 items in 12 months, could save money by buying a PPC. Details of the current prescription charge and pre-payment certificate costs are available from leaflet HC12
(As at April 2006)
Cost:  4 months            £34.65
         12 months           £95.30

For further information check on the Department of Health web site:  www.dh.gov.uk