Common Questions and answers about my prescriptions during the COVID 19 Outbreak

Can I have an extra supply to avoid the need to visit my local pharmacy?

General practice is asked not to increase prescription quantities during the Coronavirus outbreak. Sudden increases in demands for medicines can upset the supply chain and cause shortages. There is a very strong message from NHS England that normal prescribing patterns must be maintained including inhalers. This includes not prescribing earlier than usual.

I am worried about collecting my usual issued paper prescription from the surgery?

Recent guidance from NHS England asks General Practice to consider putting all suitable patients on electronic repeat dispensing prescriptions during the COVID 19 outbreak. Please indicate which pharmacy you want us to send your medication electronically to and we can update your clinical record accordingly. Please be aware you can also tell your Pharmacy when you collect your medication from them, that you’d like to have all your medication sent to them electronically and this will automatically update your record here.

Alternatively you can post your repeat request through the Staff entrance door of our main site at Alexandra Road, enclosing an SAE for return or we can arrange secure pick up from our main site.

Paracetamol Prescribing

Paracetamol is currently in short supply caused by a sudden upsurge in demand. Please be aware that our clinicians are unable to prescribe paracetamol ‘just in case’ and for OTC conditions. We have been assured that there is no manufacturing or supply issue nationally so stocks will improve.

Asthma Patients and keeping well during the COVID 19 Outbreak

Below is a useful info sheet for patients with asthma from asthma UK.

Baby Formula Prescribing

Please be aware Clinicians are unable to prescribe standard infant formulas for those experiencing supply issues in their local supermarket or pharmacy. Prescribing for infant formula is limited to those with clinical conditions that warrant specialist products.