Important Changes to Repeat Prescriptions

 

We’re making a change to how repeat prescriptions are ordered to help improve safety and make sure medicines are used responsibly.

What’s Changing

From 31 December 2025 we will be ending our Managed Repeat (Diary) Prescription System. This means that after this date, you will be responsible for ordering your own repeat medication

Why we are making this change

Many GP practices and pharmacies have already moved away from managed repeat systems. We are doing the same for several important reasons:

  • Reduce medication waste – Some medicines are ordered automatically but are no longer needed, which leads to unnecessary waste.
  • Improve safety – You’ll have better control over what you’re taking and when you need more.
  • Ensure accuracy – Only medicines you actually use will be prescribed, preventing stockpiling or confusion.
  • Protect NHS resources – Wasted medicines cost the NHS millions each year.

How to order your repeat prescriptions

From 1st January 2026, please order your repeat medication using one of the following methods:

  • NHS App – the quickest and easiest way to order online, available on smartphones and tablets.
  • SystmOnline – via your existing online services account.
  • In person – by posting the white repeat slip (attached to your prescription) in the post box at the dispensary.

We are unable to take repeat requests over the phone to ensure accuracy and safety

What you need to do now

  • Continue using the Managed Repeat System until 31st December 2025.
  • Before this date, make sure you are set up on one of the online ordering systems if you wish to use them.
  • If you need to register for SystmOnline, please speak to our reception team (not dispensary) – we are happy to help you get started.

Need Help?

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we make this change.

Please visit our website for further information and to view our FAQ's or speak to a member of our Dispensary team.

Thank you for your understanding and for helping us to keep prescribing safe, efficient, and sustainable.

 

FAQ's

How can I order my prescription?

a. NHS APP

b. SystmOnline

c. Drop your repeat slip into the surgery letterbox at the front of the building or in the letterbox next to the dispensary hatch

d. Send your repeat slip to us by post

The NHS APP can be downloaded to your smartphone or tablet. Follow the in app instructions to activate your account. Your repeat medication will then be available to order.

To register for SystmOnline, please speak to reception team who will be able to support with this.

Can someone else order my prescription on my behalf?

Yes. The best online option for this would be using SystmOnline as you will be provided with a username and password as the NHS APP only allows one user per phone

You then have control over the access to your SystmOnline account.

How long will it take for my prescription to be ready to collect?

Your prescription will be ready to collect after 5 working days from when we receive your request.

Can I be notified when my prescription is ready to collect?

Yes. Our prescription collection machine (Medpoint) will send you a text when your prescription is ready to collect.

Please speak with our dispensary staff or visit our website if you would like to sign up for this service.

What if I run out of medication over the weekend?

NHS 111 can be contacted 24 hours a day to prescribe your medication in an emergency such as this.

They will be able to send this prescription (as a one off) to a pharmacy of your choice.

 

Published: Oct 23, 2025