Get medication
Repeat medication
First, make sure you have registered with us. Medications will not automatically show on your records from your previous practice, so you will need to have this set up to order them. Our receptionists can decide the right person for you to speak to - for example, you can speak to our nurses for asthma medication or contraception.
Need medication urgently?
If your medication has been issued by us before and is on "repeat" you can request it using the NHS App or any of the other ways listed below. It usually only takes 1-2 working days for us to process this. If it's more urgent, make a note on your request and we will do our best to process it quickly. You can also take your packet/bottle to a chemist and they can usually issue you with an emergency supply. Please try not to use our same-day appointments for medication requests.
Ordering medication
Once we have a record of your repeat medication, you can re-order it in several ways.
Requests are usually processed within 1-2 working days. If we cannot process your request or need more information, we will let you know by text, phone call or email. Make sure your contact details are up-to-date
- E-mail BNSSG.healthwestph@nhs.net
- Download the NHS App Your registration needs to have been processed by us to use this.
- Register with Patient Access.
- Ask your regular pharmacy to order your repeat prescriptions on your behalf. If you are running out, a chemist may be able to give you an emergency supply for a few days.
If you are from outside the UK, you will need to book an appointment to discuss any medicines you need.
Some medications are not available on the NHS or will require a specialist to prescribe them.
Sending your prescription directly to a pharmacy
We use the electronic prescribing service (EPS) and will send your prescription directly to the pharmacy of your choice.
Specialist or private medication
If you are on medication that is managed by a hospital team, we need additional information before we can prescribe your medication, such as the most recent letter from your hospital. If you have seen a specialist privately, you may need to continue to have your medication prescribed by them, as some medications cannot be prescribed by GPs or cannot be prescribed on the NHS. This may include medication for ADHD or hormone treatments that have been prescribed privately.
There can unfortunately be some variation nationally as to what GPs can prescribe, so occasionally we may not be able to prescribe something your GP at home was able to.
Email bnssg.shsadmin@nhs.net with any questions
Paying for your prescription
There is a charge for most prescriptions. You will need to pay for your prescription when you collect it. Some people can get free prescriptions including those aged 16-18 in full-time education. Contraception is also free of charge.
If you need more than three items of medication in 3 months, a pre-payment certificate (PPC) could save you money. You can buy one online or at any chemist.
You can also apply for an HC1 exemption form if you have a low income (under £16,000) It's a very long form but will give you free prescriptions and help with dental and optician costs.