Changes in quantity of medication issued on prescription at the dispensary at West Hallam | |
 | Due to government changes being introduced from 1st April 2006 we need to change the quantities of medication that we issue to patients on repeat prescriptions. Previously we have been issuing 6 months for hormone replacement therapy and for the oral contraceptive pill and 28 to 56 days worth of medication for other conditions. These changes mean that we will be issuing three months supply for the pill and for hormone replacement therapy and 28 days supply for all other prescriptions. |
| We have been forced to make these changes because of the way the government reimburses us for running the dispensary. We believe that the dispensary at The Dales offers a valuable service to West Hallam and surrounding villages. Unfortunately we could not continue operating the dispensary without this reimbursement. |
| One reason why the government has made changes is so that less medication is wasted. Some people start a course of medication and then stop it for various reasons and the smaller the quantities prescribed at a time the less waste there will be due to this. For the minority of patients who pay for their prescriptions we realise these changes will cost them more. You may not be aware but we merely collect the prescription charges for the government and pass the money totally on to them. However, there is the option of buying a “season ticket” for four months or twelve months, which allows you to have as many prescriptions as you need during that time for one charge. You should check leaflet HC11 to see if you could get free prescriptions before considering this. Our dispensary staff will be happy to help. |
| We apologise for having to make these changes at short notice and ask for your understanding and patience. |
Dr P Weston Smith and partners | |