Electronic Prescriptions – Request here:
The practice uses electronic prescriptions. Please let one of the reception team know your designated pharmacy if you are interested in this service.
Prescriptions Charges and Exemptions
Extensive exemption and remission arrangements protect those likely to have difficulty in paying charges (NHS prescription and dental charges, optical and hospital travel costs).
The NHS prescription charge is a flat-rate amount which successive Governments have thought it reasonable to charge for those who can afford to pay for their medicines. Prescription prepayment certificates (PPCs) offer real savings for people who need extensive medication.
NHS charges
From 1 April 2019, the charges are:
• Prescription (per item): £9.00
• 12-month prepayment certificate (PPC): £104.00
• 3-month PPC: £29.10
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. The charge for a single prescription item is £9.00, whereas a three month PPC will cost you £29.10 and a 12 month PPC £104.00.
• 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
Sickness Certificates
You do not require a doctor’s sickness certificate for any illness lasting seven days or less. Your employer may however require you to complete a self-certification form (SC2) which is available from your employer or on the HMRC website.
Evidence that you are sick
Sickness CertificatesIf you are sick for more than seven days, your employer can ask you to give them some form of medical evidence to support payment of SSP (statutory sick pay).
It is up to your employer to decide whether you are incapable of work. A medical certificate, now called a ‘Statement of Fitness for Work’ (see below) from your doctor is strong evidence that you are sick and would normally be accepted, unless there is evidence to prove otherwise.
You could also provide evidence from someone who is not a medical practitioner, e.g. a dentist. Your employer will decide whether or not this evidence is acceptable. If your employer has any doubts, they may still ask for a medical certificate from your GP but there will be a charge for this
Statement of Fitness for Work – ‘Fit Note’
The ‘fit note’ was introduced on 6 April 2010. With your employer’s support, the note will help you return to work sooner by providing more information about the effects of your illness or injury.
For more information see the DirectGov website (where this information was sourced)
NB: Should you personally require a GP sicknote (rather than complete a self-certification form) to cover an absence of work for your first 7 days of absence then this will be classed as a private sicknote for which there will be a charge of £15.00