08/10/2025
IMPORTANT NOTICE FOR REPEAT PRESCRIPTIONS
FROM 1ST NOVEMBER 2025
💬 What Is Patient-Led Ordering?
The NHS is introducing Patient-Led Ordering in GP surgeries.
This means patients (or their carers) will now order their repeat prescriptions directly from the GP practice, rather than the pharmacy doing it for them. You’ll still collect your medicines from your chosen pharmacy — but you will be in charge of when and what to order.
🎯 Why the Change?
This new system is being introduced to:
✅ Reduce medicine waste - stop repeat items being ordered when not needed
✅ Improve safety - make sure only the medicines you still take are ordered
✅ Give you more control - you decide what you need and when
✅ Improve efficiency - reduce unnecessary work for GP and pharmacy staff
🧭 How It Works
1. You order your own repeat prescriptions directly from your GP
2. Pharmacies no longer order for you (unless you're exempt).
3. You can order in several ways:
o Through the NHS App
o Using your GP surgery’s online system
o In person at your practice (using your repeat slip)
o By post (if your surgery allows)
👥 Who Is Affected?
Most patients will move to this system.
However, some patients may continue to have their pharmacy order on their behalf — for example, if you:
• Are housebound or live in a care home
• Have learning disabilities, dementia, or severe illness
• Have no access to online options
• Are otherwise unable to manage ordering safely
Your GP surgery or pharmacy will discuss and agree this with you if needed.
🕒 When to Order
• Order only what you need
• Allow 5 working days before you need your next supply
• Check what medicines you still have at home before ordering
• Do not order every item unless you are running out
This helps keep you safe and reduces unnecessary NHS costs.
💡 Helpful Tips
• Download and register for the NHS App – it’s the easiest way to manage your prescriptions!
• Nominate your preferred pharmacy
• Set reminders on your phone or calendar to order on time
• Ask your GP team if you’re unsure what to order
💬 Questions or Support
If you’re unsure how to order or need extra support, please speak to your GP practice or pharmacist. They can help you set up ordering online or discuss alternative arrangements if you cannot order yourself.
🏥 Together we can make medicines safer, reduce waste,
and give patients more control.
Thank you for helping us improve care and protect NHS resources.
