Repeat Prescriptions

How to request a repeat prescription

You can request repeat prescriptions in the following ways:

1. Online
   To order repeat prescriptions online you will need to register for the 'Patient Access' online service. This is the most efficient and preferred method.
2. Email 
   As a one off you can email your request to stoccg.archwoodsurgery@nhs.net. 
   Please provide your personal details (i.e. name and/or reference number) and your prescription items from your printed request slip. We will ask you to join 'Patient Access' for subsequent requests.
3. Hand delivery or post 
   Bring your repeat prescription slip to the surgery and pop it into the box at the reception counter, or post to Archwood Medical Practice, Woodley Health Centre, Hyde Road, Woodley, Stockport SK6 1ND

Due to the possibility of errors, we do not accept orders for repeat prescriptions over the telephone. 

When Will My Prescription be Ready?

Please order your prescription well in advance and allow 2 clear working days to process your repeat prescriptions.  Phoning the practice to check if your prescription is ready should not be necessary.

PLEASE NOTE: It may take longer to process your prescription if…

• Your medication review date has passed as you may need to see a doctor first 
• An item or a note is added to the request 
• The request is from a hospital
• The request is particularly complex

NHS Electronic Prescription Service

Prescriptions in England are going paperless!! For repeat prescriptions, instead of giving you a paper prescription we can now send it direct to the pharmacy of your choice as part of the NHS Electronic Prescription Service.

What's in it for you?

• Saves time - you don't have to visit the surgery just to pick up your paper prescription. And you may not have to wait as long at the pharmacy as your repeat prescription can be made ready before you arrive.
• More convenient - you can choose to have your prescriptions sent to any pharmacy offering the service. This could be near to where you live, work or shop.
• Safer - it's all done electronically, so there's no paper prescription to lose.

Did you know all local chemists will collect and deliver prescriptions? You do not have to be housebound for this service. Contact your local chemist for more information.

All repeat prescriptions are regularly reviewed so after a period of time the doctor may ask to see you for a medication review.

If you take repeat medication, it's important to review your medication regularly to make sure it is appropriate, effective and safe for you.

Each individual person varies biologically which means different medications suit difference people better. By having medication reviews we can help make sure you are benefiting well from your medicine.

A review should normally be conducted at least annually, although the frequency may increase according to individual patient needs.

You can book a medication review appointment with our Practice Pharmacist on a Monday, Tuesday or Thursday each week.

Pharmacy First

Did you know there is a scheme called 'Pharmacy First'?

If you have young children or are on benefit and you need a medication that can be bought over the counter you can ring the surgery and ask for the pharmacy code. 

You can then go straight to the pharmacy for over the counter products that would normally require a prescription e.g.  head lice, bad cough or paracetamol.

Any queries please ask the receptionist who will be happy to help you.

Prescriptions Charges and Exemptions

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.

NHS charges

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

• Prescription (per item): £9.00
• 12-month prepayment certificate (PPC): £104.00
• 3-month PPC: £29.10

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.

• 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