The Secret to a Stress-Free Festive Period: Order Repeat NHS Prescriptions Online

If you haven’t done it already, don’t forget to order any repeat prescriptions to make sure you have any medication you need in time for the Christmas and New year holiday period.

Last winter North West Ambulance Service (NWAS) received over 18,000 calls via NHS 111 for repeat prescriptions alone, the third most common reason for calls. 32% of these calls came from people in Cheshire and Merseyside.

NHS App

The quickest and easiest way to order repeat prescriptions is by using the NHS App. You use it to order your medication at a time that’s convenient for you and choose which pharmacy you would like to collect them from.

You can download the NHS App on your smartphone or tablet via Google play or the App store. You can also access the same services in a web browser by logging in through the NHS website. If you’re struggling to get started, use the ‘Help’ button in the app or visit www.nhs.uk/helpmeapp.

Book and manage appointments

You can also use the NHS App to book and manage appointments, view your GP health record, check your vaccinations and more – putting you in better control of your own health.

GP practices will be closed during the Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day bank holidays. Many pharmacies will also be closed or operating on reduced hours. To find your nearest pharmacy and check their opening times, visit www.nhs.uk/find-a-pharmacy.

For urgent help while your GP practice is closed, go to 111.nhs.uk, call 111 or access NHS 111 via the NHS App. Please only dial 999 for life-threatening emergencies.

Take better control

Dr Fiona Lemmens, Deputy Medical Director for NHS Cheshire and Merseyside said: “Winter is an extremely busy time for health services, especially during the festive period between Christmas and New Year. Downloading and using the NHS App is a simple step people can take to help the NHS and take better control of their health.

“With just a few taps you can order repeat medications and access a range of other NHS services too, making the NHS App a convenient way to manage your health needs at home. This is great for us GPs too, as it frees up more of our time to support patients who are very unwell, so please do use it if you are able to.”

Any time of day to a pharmacy of your choice

Susanne Lynch MBE, Chief Pharmacist for NHS Cheshire and Merseyside said: “The NHS App makes it easier than ever to order the repeat prescriptions you need at any time of day to a pharmacy of your choice – all without picking up the phone or leaving the house.

“When ordering medication online it’s important to plan ahead.

Don’t wait until you’re just about to run out, as it can take time for your request to be approved by your GP and prepared by the pharmacy – especially during the busy festive period."