Prescriptions

Repeat Prescriptions

Some patients need medicines over a prolonged period of time and these can be authorised for repeat prescription by the doctor. If so, a record is kept on our computer systems  so that you may request further supplies.

Please ensure you request your medications at least 4 working days before they run out. 

Please note that we do not repeat prescriptions over the telephone via answerphone at either Lake Road or Cranborne surgeries. All repeat medication requests may be made online using a SystmOnline account or through the NHS app or Airmid App.  Alternatively we accept written requests posted into the repeat prescription box at reception.

Please consider using the online service as this is the quickest and most efficient way we can process your medication requests.

Image depicting Only Order What You Need campaign

Making a Repeat Prescription Request?

Please Only Order What You Need!

Did you know that approximately 1.6 million medicine items are wasted unnecessarily in Dorset every year?  We are asking our patients for help to reduce this.

We want people to have the right medicine and care while reducing the amount of medicine waste. If you have enough medicine at home, there’s no need to order more every time. You will still be able to request your medicine again in the future.  

The good news is that you can help make a tremendous difference by only ordering what you need. 

Thank you to the many people who are already doing this.

For more information, visit the NHS Dorset website here>> – www.nhsdorset.nhs.uk/yourmeds

Ordering Repeat Prescriptions Online

We offer you the opportunity for you to request repeat prescriptions online. If you would like to access our SystmOnline repeat prescription service, please email cranborne.reception@dorsetgp.nhs.uk with a photo or scan of your ID (driving license preferably as it has address) and then the Practice will email back the log in details.

Parents or an adult with parental responsibility can obtain their child's username and password so that they can order repeat prescriptions on behalf of the child concerned. However, from the age of 16 years old an individual is deemed to be a "young adult" and will be able to obtain their own username and password. This is to enable a young adult to choose if they want to consult a doctor independently and confidentially. 

Note: SystmOnline is only available from within the UK. You cannot access SystmOnline from abroad.

Order via a Chemist

Several of the chemists in Verwood are able to “automatically order” for you – please contact your usual Pharmacy to arrange this.

Dispensing

We are able to dispense medicines directly to all patients that live more than a mile from a pharmacy if they wish, and if they have signed the appropriate forms. The normal prescription charges and exemptions apply.

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 having to come down to the surgery.

To get your prescription sent to your chosen pharmacy you will have to ask reception to sign up.

For more information please click here.

Collections

Please remember to give 2 working days notice for collection or 3 working days notice if collecting from your chosen pharmacy.

Please be aware that repeat prescription boxes are emptied, and messages retrieved from the answer phone, first thing on the morning. If a repeat prescription is requested after 08:00 it will not be dealt with until the following working day and 2 working days starts from then.

Usually one months supply will be given at a time and you will be advised how frequently the doctor will want to check your treatment, but if you have any queries or feel you need to see a doctor earlier, please contact us.

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 on the NHS website

Pre-pay and save

Any patient who regularly receives prescriptions could save money by purchasing an Annual Prepayment Certificate.  It is quick and easy to order an Annual PPC online
 
For more information and details on terms, conditions and costs, visit the NHS Business Services Authority website by following this link:>>
 
Or telephone Tel: 0300 330 1341
 

NHS Charges

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

  • Prescription (per item): £9.65
  • 12-month prepayment certificate (PPC): £111.60
  • 3-month PPC: £31.25

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.

  • 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.

Over The Counter Medicines (OTC)

Prescriptions for medicines such as Paracetamol that can be bought over the counter at Pharmacies and Supermarkets. 

By reducing the amount the NHS spends on OTC medicines, the NHS can give priority to treatments for people with more serious conditions, such as cancer, diabetes and mental health problems.

Please click here for more information and a list of minor health conditions you can by over the counter medicines for.

OTC medication

If you have your own sharps boxes at home then they need to be dated & signed when opened and then when closed, before being returned to the Surgery.