Prescriptions reminder | News and events

Local NHS leaders are urging local people to plan ahead and order their repeat prescriptions in time to ensure they have enough of their routine medicines over the Christmas and New Year break.  

GP Practices will be closed over the bank holidays and only some pharmacies will be open, meaning people may not be able to pick up a prescription at short notice. Having to make these last-minute requests can cause real stress for the individual, whilst also adding avoidable pressure for GP practices, pharmacies, and other NHS services.  

Sati Ubhi, Chief Pharmacist at NHS Cambridgeshire & Peterborough said:

Planning ahead for ordering and collecting repeat prescriptions is essential at a time when services are likely to be busier than normal.  

Running out of your usual medication can have serious consequences. By ordering medicines as soon as possible, it allows enough time for it to be processed and dispensed and helps avoid a last-minute rush.

Ordering repeat prescriptions is easier than ever. Most repeat medication requests can be made online, via local GP practice websites or through the NHS App. People who do not use the internet can approach their GP practice to obtain their prescription. 

Sati added:

It’s helpful to make a note of your local pharmacy’s opening times over the festive season. It’s also a good time to stock up on medicine cabinet essentials such as pain killers, cough and cold remedies and a first aid kit so you can treat minor illnesses or injuries at home.

You can download the NHS app on Google Play or on the App Store, and find your local pharmacy online.

If you find that you have run out of prescription medication over the bank holiday weekend and need an emergency repeat prescription, you can request an emergency prescription via NHS 111.