Repeat Prescribing

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Clinical Terms
A system that allows patients to request regular medication without seeing their GP each time, improving efficiency in primary care.

What is Repeat Prescribing in Primary Care?

What is ?

Repeat prescribing is a structured process in UK primary care that enables patients with stable, long-term conditions to obtain regular medication without consulting their GP for each prescription. This system typically involves an initial assessment followed by a set period (usually 6-12 months) during which prescriptions can be requested and processed by practice staff following agreed protocols. It constitutes approximately 75% of all prescriptions issued in general practice, making it a vital component of efficient healthcare delivery and resource management.

Repeat Prescribing Best Practices

What is ?

  • Implement robust electronic systems with clear authorisation protocols to minimise errors
  • Conduct regular medication reviews (at least annually) to ensure continued appropriateness
  • Establish clear communication channels between patients, pharmacies and practices
  • Develop standardised processes for handling urgent requests and medication changes
  • Monitor prescribing patterns regularly to identify potential issues or improvements

Use Repeat Prescribing in a Sentence

What is ?

  1. The practice has streamlined its repeat prescribing process, allowing patients to request medication via the NHS app.
  2. Effective repeat prescribing systems can significantly reduce GP workload while maintaining patient safety.
  3. The primary care network has implemented a centralised repeat prescribing service across all member practices.
Frequently Asked Questions about
Repeat Prescribing

What does Repeat Prescribing mean?

Repeat prescribing is a system used in UK primary care that allows patients with stable, long-term conditions to obtain regular medication without seeing their GP for each prescription. After an initial assessment, patients can request their medication at agreed intervals (typically monthly) through various channels such as online services, phone, or in person. The request is then processed according to practice protocols, reviewed by appropriate clinical staff, and issued to the patient or sent directly to their pharmacy.

How does the Repeat Prescribing process work in a GP practice?

In a typical GP practice, the repeat prescribing process begins with a clinician authorising medication for repeat dispensing for a set period (usually 6-12 months). Patients can then request their medication when needed through various channels including online services, telephone, or in person. These requests are processed by trained administrative staff following established protocols, checked by a clinician or pharmacist, and then issued. Medications require regular review, and the system includes safeguards such as maximum authorisation periods, automated review prompts, and monitoring of request patterns to ensure safe prescribing.

What role do Primary Care Networks play in repeat prescribing?

Primary Care Networks (PCNs) have transformed repeat prescribing by implementing network-wide approaches that standardise processes across member practices. Many PCNs employ clinical pharmacists who specialise in medication management, including repeat prescribing oversight, medication reviews, and prescribing optimisation. This collaborative approach enables shared resources, consistent protocols, enhanced medication safety monitoring, and improved efficiency. PCNs may also coordinate with community pharmacies to deliver services like the Electronic Prescription Service (EPS) and Medicines Order Line to streamline the entire medication supply process.

What are the benefits and risks of repeat prescribing systems?

Benefits of repeat prescribing include improved practice efficiency, reduced GP workload, enhanced patient convenience, and better medication adherence. However, risks exist, including potential for medication errors, continuation of inappropriate treatments, missed opportunities for clinical review, and possible medication wastage. Well-designed systems mitigate these risks through regular medication reviews, robust protocols, clear communication channels, and appropriate staff training. The NHS continually works to balance efficiency with safety through initiatives like structured medication reviews and electronic prescription systems.

How is technology changing repeat prescribing in UK primary care?

Technology is revolutionising repeat prescribing through integrated electronic health records, online patient access portals like the NHS App, and the Electronic Prescription Service (EPS). These innovations enable patients to request medications digitally, allow clinicians to authorise prescriptions remotely, and facilitate direct transmission to pharmacies. Advanced clinical decision support systems can flag potential drug interactions or monitoring requirements, while analytics tools help identify prescribing patterns and improvement opportunities. Remote monitoring technologies are also being integrated, enabling more personalised medication management while maintaining efficiency.

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