Refilling prescriptions in England?
Need to refill prescriptions while in England?
I hope this is the right place to ask! I’ll be in England for two months this summer, coming from the USA. I’ll likely need to refill my prescription for mood stabilizers while I’m there. My current prescription is for three months, and I have a renewal coming next week, but that won’t last me through the end of July.
What’s the best approach for handling this? Can I just walk into any pharmacy? Can anyone share how the process works for foreigners? Thanks!
When it comes to refilling prescriptions in England as a visitor, there are a few important steps to follow:
Check Your Prescription:
Before you leave the USA, make sure you have a sufficient supply of your medication. Since you’re getting a 3-month supply, check if that will last until you return home.
Visit a General Practitioner (GP):
As a foreigner, you won’t be able to refill prescriptions directly at a pharmacy without a UK prescription. The best option is to register with a local GP or visit an urgent care clinic. Explain your situation, and they may be able to provide you with a short-term prescription for your medication.
Bring Documentation:
When you visit the GP, bring documentation about your medication. This can include your original prescription, a letter from your doctor in the USA, or even your medication packaging. This documentation can help them understand your needs.
Finding a Pharmacy:
Once you have a UK prescription, you can take it to any community pharmacy to get your medication filled. Pharmacies in England often have extended hours, and some may even offer a delivery service.
Costs:
Be aware that prescriptions in England may incur a fee, typically around £9.35 per item. If you’re staying for two months, consider discussing with the GP the possibility of getting a longer supply if they deem it appropriate.
Emergency Options:
If you’re unable to see a GP right away and run out of medication, consider visiting a hospital for an emergency consultation, but this should be a last resort.
It’s always good to plan ahead, so try to address this as soon as you arrive. Enjoy your time in England!