Question 1

Shared Care Agreements

Accepted Answer

A shared care agreement is a formal arrangement between a specialist (usually hospital-based) and a patient's GP, where responsibility for prescribing and monitoring a particular medication is transferred, in part, to the GP once the patient's condition has stabilised under specialist supervision.It typically applies to medicines that need regular monitoring or carry specific risks.Please note that our practice does not accept shared care agreements. Continued prescribing and monitoring of these medications will remain under the care of the specialist or hospital team that initiated the treatment. We feel this is in the best interest of our patients.

Question 2

Controlled & Addictive Medicines

Accepted Answer

Practice does not routinely continue or start addictive medicines (opioids, gabapentin, pregabalin, benzodiazepines, Z-drugs).If already on them, patients must agree to a review and possible tapering/deprescribing plan.If prescribed, it will be for short-term use, with regular reviews.Hospital/private prescriptions are only taken over if clinically appropriate.

Question 3

New patients on Benzodiazepines/Z drugs

Accepted Answer

New Patients to the practice who have been prescribed Benzodiazepines/Z drugs by a previous care provider.It may take time to get accurate medical information about new patients. Until such information is available, GP’s may choose not to prescribe any medication. It is our policy that GPs do not prescribe drugs of dependence until they have a full clinical picture.GP’s may decide not to continue prescribing a benzodiazepine or Z-drug previously prescribed for patients. It may be determined that such a medication is not suitable. It is our policy that GPs do not prescribe drugs of dependence if they feel that previous prescriptions were inappropriate.GP’s will evaluate patients’ conditions and only prescribe a benzodiazepine or Z-drug of the lowest strength for the shortest time necessary. This may be different to the drug prescribed for a patient at a previous GP Practice.

Question 4

Can I get my private prescription transferred to an NHS prescription?

Accepted Answer

If you see a private doctor or specialist and they recommend a particular medication or treatment for you, this will be a private prescription. The GP practice will not usually be able to transfer a private prescription onto an NHS prescription.The prescription may be issued issued by a GP if they are: felt to be in line with NHS treatment and local prescribing rules, safe and appropriate for the patient, and suitable for a GP to prescribe.

Question 5

Prescribing Medication for Period Delay

Accepted Answer

Medication to delay periods is not provided by the NHS. Patients over 16 requesting medication will be directed to seek an assessment from a private pharmacy or clinic.If you search online for “period delay tablets”, you will find a list of providers who offer this service. All patients need to have an assessment, and the tablets may not be suitable for everyone depending on your other medical conditions. There will be a cost for this service.While we do not prescribe medication for period delay, we are available to discuss any medical concerns or provide general advice related to menstrual health and well-being.

Question 6

Sedation for Flying

Accepted Answer

We do not prescribe sedation for flying. This is a common policy in GP practices and is due to the risks involved (sedation makes it difficult to respond to emergencies and increases the risk of blood clots). It also goes against prescribing (BNF) and treatment (NICE) guidance.Alternative Support for Fear of FlyingRather than relying on medication, a much more effective and long-term solution is to address your fear of flying through a dedicated course. Many airlines offer specialised programmes to help passengers overcome their anxiety:EasyJet – Fearless Flyer CourseBritish Airways – Flying with ConfidenceGatwick Airport – Fear of FlyingWe appreciate that fear of flying can be challenging, but these courses provide effective, practical support to help you travel with confidence.We understand that this may cause some inconvenience, but our priority is to focus on our core NHS duties and ensure patient safety. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in seeking appropriate alternatives for managing fear of flying. Our commitment remains to provide the best possible care within our practice's scope and capabilities.

Question 7

Sedation for procedures

Accepted Answer

We do not prescribe sedation for procedures performed elsewhere (e.g. dentist or hospital treatment). The appropriateness of sedation must be assessed by the clinician performing a procedure, and any prescription required must be prescribed by them.

Question 8

Prescriptions started abroad

Accepted Answer

As with private prescriptions, prescriptions started abroad will only be issued by a GP if they are: felt to be in line with NHS treatment and local prescribing rules, safe and appropriate for the patient, and suitable for a GP to prescribe.

Question 9

Lost/Stolen presctiptions

Accepted Answer

Must be reported; if stolen, a police crime reference number is required.Replacements are not automatic and strictly limitedEach request is reviewed on a case by case basis

Southend Medical Centre

Repeat Medication

Ordering Repeat Medication

Collecting Your Repeat Medications

Changing Your Nominated Pharmacy

Medication Reviews

Questions about your Repeat Medications

Repeat Medication Charges

Frequently asked questions