Since the Practice move to Total Traige system, we have more pateint contact than usual and hence increased prescribing . This means our current staff are having to manage more workload within the same resources . So please bear this in mind. Order in time and use online access to order repeats rather than on paper or in person. 

Repeat prescriptions require 72 hours notice (not includ­ing weekends or bank holidays).

Repeat prescription forms/slips are obtained from our dispensary. You may also like to register for on-line repeat prescription ordering (over 16s). 

For safety reasons we cannot take requests for repeat prescriptions over the phone.

For instructions on how to register please ring our receptionist. 

The Dispensary will only take calls from 14:00 - 17:30 for any prescription related queries.

You will need to have medication review done by our clinical pharmacy team once a year to check for compliance and suitability of medications. 

If you have recieved a message to book in for a medication review, please book promptly to avoid delays in getting reauthorised for ordering your medications. 

This practice has the benefit of a fully stocked dispensary for all patients who live further than one mile from a chemist. 

Opening Times

• Monday to Friday: 08:30 - 12:30 / 14:00 - 17:00
• Closed daily between 12:30 and 14:00

Acute prescriptions are dispensed when issued. If you think you may need a prescription, please make an appointment to see your doctor.

Practice Dispensary Information Leaflet

Asda Pharmacy, South Church Road T: 01388 600210 (09:00 - 18:00)

Boots Pharmacy, St Helens Auckland T: 01388 665183 (09:00 - 17:30)

Tesco Store Pharmacy, St Helens Auckland T: 0345 026 9626 (09:00 - 18:00)

Help with NHS costs

In England, around 90% of prescription items are dispensed free. This includes exemptions from charging for those on low incomes, such as:

• those on specific benefits or through the NHS Low Income Scheme
• those who are age exempt
• those with certain medical conditions
• More information is available at NHS Choices

These charges apply in England only. In Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales prescriptions are free of charge.

• Prescription (per item): £9.90

If you will have to pay for four or more prescription items in three months or more than 14 items in 12 months, you may find it cheaper to buy a PPC.

• Telephone advice and order line 0845 850 0030
• General Public - Buy or Renew a PPC On-line

There is further information about prescription exemptions and fees on the NHS website.

NHS Prescription Charges – Important Information for Patients

We understand that it can be frustrating if a medication does not suit you, causes side effects, or needs to be changed after it has been prescribed.

We would like to clarify how NHS prescription charges work.

Why have I been charged if the medication did not work for me?

The NHS prescription charge is a statutory charge for the dispensing of your prescription by the pharmacy. It is not a payment that guarantees the medication will be suitable, effective, or free from side effects.

Many medicines can affect people differently. Sometimes a medication may need to be changed after review with your GP, nurse, or pharmacist.

Examples include:

• a blood pressure tablet causing a cough
• an antibiotic not being suitable
• a medication causing unwanted side effects
• a treatment needing adjustment after clinical review

In these situations, the original NHS prescription charge still usually applies.

When can a refund be requested?

A refund may be possible if:

• you paid for a prescription but were actually entitled to free prescriptions
• you had a valid Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC)
• you had a valid maternity exemption certificate
• you had a valid HC2 certificate
• the pharmacy charged you incorrectly
• an exemption should have applied but was missed

Refunds are handled through NHS processes and are not usually issued directly by the GP practice.

What should I do if I think I was charged incorrectly?

Please speak to your pharmacy first, as they can often advise on the payment and dispensing details.

You may also be able to apply for a refund through the NHS Business Services Authority (NHSBSA).

Further information can be found on the NHS website:
https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/prescriptions-and-pharmacies/

Our advice

If your medication is causing side effects or does not seem to be helping, please contact the practice so we can review your treatment safely.

Please do not stop important medication without seeking medical advice first.

Thank you for your understanding.

Pinfold Medical Practice