Dispensary
Please note the dispensary is open every Saturday morning, except for the Saturday before a bank or public holiday Monday.
The dispensary is able to provide medication to the majority of patients registered at Chapel Row Surgery if you live more than 1 mile as the crow flies from the nearest pharmacy.
However, if you live within 1 mile of a dispensing pharmacist, the NHS rules that we are not permitted to dispense to you. We have to issue a signed prescription to you instead. This mainly affects patients living in Theale or Thatcham. This is a legal regulation over which we have no influence.
Despite the government’s NHS agenda on patient “choice”, this does not apply to dispensing.
We have a dispensary general enquiry line on 0118 971 3803 and this will now be manned Monday to Friday 10am to 11:30am in the morning and 3pm to 4:30pm in the afternoon.
Ordering repeat prescriptions
The easiest ways to order repeat prescriptions are:
- using your NHS account (through the NHS website or in the NHS App)
These accounts show you all your repeat medicine and dosage and you can choose the ones you need.
You can also:
- fill out a repeat prescriptions request form
We do not take repeat prescription requests over the phone or email.
Collecting your prescription
You can usually collect your prescription 3 working days after you have ordered it.
You will need to choose a pharmacy to collect your prescription from. We call this nominating a pharmacy.
You can change your nominated pharmacy at any time:
- on the app or website where you order repeat prescriptions
- at any pharmacy that accepts repeat prescriptions
Questions about your prescription
If you have questions about your medicine, your local pharmacists can answer these. They can also answer questions on medicines you can buy without a prescription.
The NHS website has information on how your medicine works, how and when to take it, possible side effects and answers to your common questions.
If you would like to speak to someone at the GP surgery about your prescription:
- fill out an ask a prescription question form
Medication reviews
If you have a repeat prescription, we may ask you to come in for a regular review. We will be in touch when you need to come in for a review.
Prescription charges
Find out more about prescription charges.
What to do with old medicines
Take it to the pharmacy you got it from or bring it in to the surgery. Do not put it in your household bin or flush it down the toilet.
About pharmacists
As qualified healthcare professionals, pharmacists can offer advice on minor illnesses such as:
- coughs
- colds
- sore throats
- tummy trouble
- aches and pains
They can also advise on medicine that you can buy without a prescription.
Many pharmacies are open until late and at weekends. You do not need an appointment.
Most pharmacies have a private room where you can discuss issues with pharmacy staff.