How Long Is a Private Prescription Valid in the UK?

There are two systems for delivering medical services in the UK: the National Health Service NHS and Private Medical Services.

While the NHS is a government-based medicinal service, Private Medical Services are offered by licensed private medical practitioners and healthcare providers. In the case of the fees, they must be paid directly to the practitioner or service provider by the individual. Here’s how you can get a private prescription in the UK. 

Who Can Assign a Private Prescription?

Any licensed and registered doctor or dentist can issue a private prescription to allow the provision of prescribed medications to a patient. Private practitioners typically charge a consultation fee and other fees for medical services. Whether working for the NHS or in the private sector, all practitioners must abide by the codes of ethics governing their activities. 

Requirements of a Private Prescription

A registered and licensed practitioner must issue the prescription in the UK or an EEA state. The following information needs to be on the prescription:

●       The date the prescription was first issued

●       The patient's birthdate, last name, and middle initial

●       The details of the prescribers (name, contact details, qualification, signature, etc.) 

The prescription should also have the details of the prescribed drug, including:

●       Name of the medicine

●       Medication formulation

●       Dosage

●       The potency of the medication is given

●       The guidelines or recommended dosage

How Long Is a Private Prescription Valid in the UK?

Once a prescription is prescribed, it is valid for 6 months from the issue. As long as the first repeat is administered within six months of the prescription's date, any subsequent repeat prescription is valid indefinitely. For controlled substances listed in schedules 2, 3, or 4, a prescription is valid for 28 days after the issuance date.

Key Takeaway

Besides NHS prescription services, any private physician in the UK can write you a private prescription. The prescription is valid for six months from the date of issuance. You can also contact Pharmacy to My Door for any prescription or inquiries related to NHS repeat prescription in Kineton, NHS repeat prescription in Stratford upon Avon, NHS repeat prescription in Chipping Norton, or NHS repeat prescription in Brailes.