Order repeat prescriptions | What's Happening Blog

NHS teams across Cambridgeshire & Peterborough are urging local people to order their repeat prescriptions well ahead of the festive break, to help us all stay Well Together during the holidays.

Last year, nearly 500 calls were made to the local 111 team to request repeat prescriptions over the festive period. Having to make these last-minute requests can cause real stress for our local people, whilst also adding avoidable pressure for teams staffing the 111 helpline over the holidays.

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

Pharmacy teams need up to seven days to fill repeat prescriptions. That’s why the local NHS is urging everyone in Cambridgeshire & Peterborough to place their repeat orders at least a week before they run out, and well ahead of the Bank Holiday period when pharmacies and GP practices will operate limited opening hours.

Dr Fiona Head, Chief Medical Officer for NHS Cambridgeshire & Peterborough (part of Cambridgeshire & Peterborough Integrated Care System), said:

“Running out of medicine you rely on is the last thing you want when you’re celebrating with loved ones over the holidays.

“We want to help all of our local communities to stay Well Together this Winter, so we’re asking everyone to get their repeat prescriptions in now to avoid running out during the festive weeks.”

Erin Barrett, NHS 111 call handler in Peterborough added:

“My NHS 111 colleagues and I are there for you over the festive period if you need urgent healthcare advice. I am proud to be part of a team that looks after those that need us most when GP practices are closed. Ordering your repeat prescriptions is a really easy way to help us help you and keeping patients safe this festive period."

For more information about how to stay Well Together this Winter, please visit www.cpics.org.uk/well-together.