How do I sign up for batch prescriptions?
If you think you may be eligible, contact your surgery to set up.
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If you get regular or repeat prescriptions, you could save time by switching to batch prescribing. Batch prescribing is also known as electronic Repeat Dispensing or eRD.
Using batch prescribing, your GP can approve your regular repeat prescriptions for up to a year in advance.
The batch of approved prescriptions is then available to your pharmacy the next time you’re due your medication.
This doesn’t mean you will be given six or twelve months of medication by your pharmacy all at once. Your medication should be given to you at the usual regular intervals that it is currently.
Benefits of batch prescriptions:
- You don’t need to request repeat prescriptions regularly, saving you and your GP time.
- Your pharmacy team will check with you to see how you are doing on your medication.
- You can ask your pharmacy for your medicines early if you’re going on holiday.
To be eligible you must:
- have a stable condition needing long-term medication
- be prescribed certain, suitable medications
- continue to attend regular reviews
Step by step guide:
- Your surgery will tell you when you have been approved for a batch of prescriptions.
- Instead of ordering a repeat prescription, go directly to your pharmacy for your next supply. Ask for your batch or eRD prescription
- To prevent waste, only ask for the medicines you need.
- Your pharmacy will tell you when you are due to finish your batch.
- When you need a new batch of prescriptions, contact your surgery to request them. You may need a medication review.
Please contact your surgery if you are interested in being considered for batch prescriptions.
Once set up, talk to your pharmacy about managing collections.
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Frequently asked questions
Does my surgery automatically know when I need a new batch?
You will need to tell your surgery when you have finished your batch and ask for a new one to be set up.
Can I change pharmacies while on a batch prescription?
Yes, your batch prescription will be available to your nominated pharmacy. You can change your nominated pharmacy by contacting your surgery, using the NHS or Patient Access apps or in person at your pharmacy.
What happens if I need extra medication before I go on holiday?
You can ask your pharmacy for your medicines early if you’re going on holiday.
How often will I need to see my GP while using batch prescribing?
You will still need to come in for medication reviews when asked by your surgery. You will need to continue to attend reviews to be eligible for batch prescriptions.
What happens if my medication changes while on a batch prescription?
Any changes to your prescription will also be made to your batch and this will automatically be available to your pharmacy.
Can I cancel batch prescription if I no longer want to use the system?
You can choose to stop receiving your prescription as a batch at any time, simply contact your surgery. If you choose to stop, you will need to start regularly requesting your prescriptions again.
Can I use eRD for controlled drugs?
No, eRD cannot be used for controlled drugs or medications.
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