Prescriptions

A claim on social media states that those in the UK with asthma or COPD can contact their GP in order to get a “rescue pack” amid the coronavirus pandemic.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

We have been made aware of some inaccurate information circulating regarding special ‘rescue packs’ for patients with pre-existing respiratory conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Please do not contact your GP practice for a rescue pack. You should continue to manage your condition in the usual way and if you feel you have symptoms of COVID-19, go to https://111.nhs.uk/covid-19 before doing anything else.

For patients with pre-existing respiratory conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Please do not contact your GP practice for a rescue pack. You should continue to manage your condition in the usual way and if you feel you have symptoms of COVID-19, go to https://111.nhs.uk/covid-19 before doing anything else.

Asthma Patients

Rescue packs are not normally issued to asthmatics unless expressly requested by the respiratory clinic. Please visit https://www.asthma.org.uk/

Please use your inhalers regularly as directed especially your preventer. The site gives good up to date advice on asthma and covid 19.

COPD please visit the British lung foundation http://www.blf.org.uk/corona as this has good current advice. Not all patients are suitable for a rescue pack but if they have symptoms of a chest infection they can call the Practice and medication will be prescribed if deemed necessary by a GP

Repeat Prescriptions

Requests are to be made by ticking the required medications on the right hand side of your last prescription and then:

• Order repeat prescriptions via online services (registration required)
• Post the prescription in the request box situated on the counter at reception
• Posting it to the Practice (if a SAE is enclosed prescription will be returned to you)

Note: To prevent errors and clinical safety reasons repeat requests are not routinely taken over the phone.

It is important to ensure that you have a continuous supply of medication; therefore all requests should be made a few days in advance.

Routine repeat prescriptions require a minimum of 48 hours notice.

Urgent prescriptions will be issued on the same day at the discretion of the doctors.

Electronic Prescription Service

We operate the Electronic Prescription Service which means you no longer need to visit your GP to pick up your repeat prescriptions; your GP will send it electronically to a pharmacy of your choice. You will need to nominate a place for your GP to send your prescriptions, i.e. pharmacy, or a dispensing contractor (if you use one).

Medication Reviews

Patients on repeat medication will be asked to see a doctor, nurse practitioner or practice nurse at least once a year to review these regular medications and notification should appear on your repeat slip.

Please ensure that you book an appropriate appointment to avoid unnecessary delays to further prescriptions.