Hanscombe House Surgery

HOW DO I...
OBTAIN A REPEAT PRESCRIPTION?

Repeat prescription requests will be accepted in writing or by handing in the computer-generated slip attached to your last prescriptions with the items you require clearly marked. Please allow two complete working days before collection. Please do not telephone. This is to avoid mistakes when taking information about medication over the telephone and to free our lines for more urgent calls and appointments. Alternatively you may request your prescription by fax, email or by post if you enclose a stamped addressed envelope but please allow five working days for this to be returned to you.

Whilst on repeat prescriptions you will be asked from time to time to see the doctor to ensure that the medication is working and that the dose is correct. Please ensure that you always have sufficient tablets to last over the weekend and public holidays when the surgery is closed.

As recommended by the Department of Health, and in line with other local surgeries, the practice has introduced a 28-day repeat prescribing policy for patients who are exempt from paying for their prescriptions. This policy has been recognised by the NHS as achieving the best possible balance between patient convenience, good medical practice and minimal drug wastage.

The surgery participates in repeat dispensing which means that we can provide you with a batch of prescriptions for up to 12 months. This saves you from having to come to the surgery to request another prescription. This service is for patients who have regular medication and are currently stable. Please ask you doctor if you qualify and would like this option.

Most chemists in the area operate a prescription collection service from the surgery. Your prescription request will need to be handed in to us first and will then be collected by the chemist of your choice. Some chemists will deliver to your home. Please ask the receptionist for details

HOW DO I...
OBTAIN A SICKNESS CERTIFICATE?

Doctors' certificates are only needed after the first week off. For up to one week of sickness self-certificates should be used which your employer should be able to supply. If you need a certificate for the first week for any reason, this will be a private note for which there is a charge.