Eletronic Prescriptions

Despite what I said in my two previous messages, our system does work, and reasonably well at that. Obviously I can't comment on the electronic ordering procedure, but using the "leave a message" procedure, it works thus:

Ring the "Repeat Presciption line" which is separate from the general appointments line.

Listen to the messages, one of which advises to allow 3 days/72 hours for processing, then press a key depending on the destination of the prescription. We have three pharmacies, two in the town centre and the third on site. As the surgery is out of town, I always select "Boots" as it is easier for us.

Then speak, name, date of birth, and the medications required. Job done.

As it happens, my wife accidently gave my mobile 'phone number to Boots pharmacy who then send a text message advising when ready for collection, but usually we collect during the week following the request. Normally, I resist all requests for my mobile 'phone number, but thought that this could be of use so left it as is. I'm not too sure about Boot's efficiency in using it as we have often collected the items without receiving a message.

On a personal basis, I always place my request well in advance of actual requirement date. This is to cover for times when surgery/pharmacy may be closed, or if we are going away, or if something goes wrong. Never had a problem with this, in fact I doubt if the surgery realises as I'm usually careful with the actual request dates.

As I have implied in the earlier messages, all of my problems have been with the convoluted software used for electronic ordering of items. I have never had a problem with either getting the items or having them authorised by the surgery.

Cheers,

Peter G. Shaw

My local surgery has swapped its telephones for ouija boards, at least that's what it feels like if you try to ring them up

My local group of surgeries uses the "my surgery" website which could be difficult for some, seems to work for me, and the prescription is relayed to the pharmacy of my choice for me to pick up about 4 working days after I make the request.