Prescriptions

Repeat Prescriptions

We run a computerised system to issue repeat prescriptions which have already been agreed with your doctor.

Methods for ordering your prescriptions are:

  • Online - Via the link at the top of this page. First time users are required to complete a simple one-off registration.
  • In Person- Return the counterfoil of the prescription document clearly marking with a tick the medication you require to reception. A box is provided in reception to enable you to deliver your prescription without having to wait. There is also a letterbox for when the surgery is closed.
  • By Post- Post the counterfoil of the prescription document clearly marking with a tick the medication you require to the surgery, enclosing a stamped self-addressed envelope. If posting please remember to give at least one weeks notice for a first class stamp and longer if using second class.
  • Chemist- You can also ask for your prescription to be collected by a local chemist. Please check at reception which chemists offer this service. Unfortunately we cannot accept responsibility for prescriptions lost in the post or by the chemist.

Unfortunately we do not accept requests by telephone.  We no longer have a fax.

Repeat Dispensing (eRD) Prescribing System

STEP BY STEP GUIDE TO HOW TO OBTAIN YOUR MEDICATION USING ELECTRONIC REPEAT DISPENSING (eRD) PRESCRIBING SYSTEM

 STEP 1

If you have received a text from the practice stating your prescription has been moved to this method of ordering you do not need to do anything and can go to STEP 2.

For patients who wish to move to eRD:

Talk to us about moving to Electronic Repeat Dispensing (eRD). If we agree you are eligible, your permission will be requested to share information about your treatment with your nominated pharmacy (any pharmacy which dispenses NHS medication). This enables your pharmacist to communicate to us about your treatment and the ability to provide you with tailored advice. We will then authorise a number of eRD prescriptions (to cover a determined number of months). The duration will be based on your circumstances and clinical need.

STEP 2

Request and collect your first eRD prescription from your chosen pharmacy.  

STEP 3

When you need your next month’s prescription, contact your pharmacy / go back to your pharmacy to request and collect.

Your pharmacy will ask you the following questions prior to issuing you your medications:

  • Have you seen any health professionals (GP, nurse or hospital doctor), since your last repeat prescription was supplied and has your health conditions changed?
  • Have you recently started taking any new medicines – either on prescription or that you have bought over the counter?
  • Have you been having any problems with your medication or experiencing any side effects?
  • Are there any items on your repeat prescription that you don’t need this month?

Please inform the pharmacy of only the medications you need, so they can issue what you require. This will aid waste reduction and save NHS resources.

If you have any questions about your medicines, just ask at the pharmacy; they’ll be happy to help you.

STEP 4

When your pharmacy supplies your last prescription, they will advise you to contact your us to arrange for your medication to be reviewed and if it is clinically appropriate to issue another eRD prescription.

Should you have any other questions or concerns regarding this process please contact us or your pharmacy.

Should you have any questions or concerns please contact us.

When will my prescription be ready?

Prescriptions will be ready for collection in two working days if you will be picking the prescription up from the surgery. Please remember to take weekends and bank holidays into account. For those that request their prescription be sent to a local pharmacy then the time will be dependent on that pharmacy. Please contact the relevant pharmacy for an indication of the timescale.

Where can I get my prescription?

There are several pharmacies in Welwyn Garden City and Hatfield (see bottom of this page). The pharmacies will pick up your written prescription from the health centre. If you wish to use this service please state which pharmacy you wish to use on your prescription request. Please note this may result in a delay in you getting your medication.

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

Electronic Prescribing Service

This practice is set up for the electronic prescription service.

This means that for most patients we can send your prescription to your chosen chemist directly, saving you from having to visit the surgery in person.

To get your prescription sent to your chosen pharmacy or chemist, you will have to sign up at your chosen pharmacy first and then inform us who your nominated pharmacy is.

Prescription Fees

Help with NHS costs

In England, around 90% of prescription items are dispensed free. This includes exemptions from charging for those on low incomes, such as:

  • those on specific benefits or through the NHS Low Income Scheme
  • those who are age exempt
  • those with certain medical conditions
  • More information is available at NHS Choices

NHS Charges

These charges apply in England only. In Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales prescriptions are free of charge.

If you will have to pay for four or more prescription items in three months or more than 14 items in 12 months, you may find it cheaper to buy a PPC.

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

https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/prescriptions-and-pharmacies/save-money-with-a-prescription-prepayment-certificate-ppc/

 

Exemptions from prescription charges

There are also categories of people who are entitled to exemption or remission from the prescription charges.  Examples of these include the following;

People aged 60 years and over

People aged 16 years and under

16, 17 and 18 years old and still in full-time education

Expectant mothers or those who have given birth in the previous 12 months if they are in possession of a valid Maternity Exemption Certificate

Patients who are in possession of a valid Prescription Payment Certificate (PPC) valid for either 3 months or 12 months as mentioned above.

Those in possession of a prescription exemption certificate and possess an NHS prescription for items prescribed for their accepted disablement

Those with a valid war pension exemption certificate

 

Local pharmacies

Sainsbury’s WGC 01707 376511

Boots Howard Centre 01707 322608

Waitrose WGC 01707 335856

Lloyds Shoplands 01707 326754

Boots Moors Walk 01707 334538

Boots Woodhall 01707 323533

Boots Peartree 01707 391132

Tescos Hatfield 03456 779344

Peartree Pharmacy 01707 372172

Asda Hatfield 01707 630810

Bridge Cottage Pharmacy 01438 840240