A Conwy GP practice has moved to reassure patients after a local pharmacy displayed a notice suggesting changes to managed repeat prescription arrangements, which would have required some patients to order their own medication from October 1.
Practice says no agreement reached and meeting postponed
Bodreinallt Surgery, on Castle Street in Conwy, said it had not reached a formal decision to remove the option for pharmacies to manage repeat prescriptions on behalf of patients. The practice described itself as "disappointed" that information was shared publicly before discussions with community pharmacists had taken place.
"We would like to clarify that no formal agreement or final decision has been made regarding any changes to the current repeat prescription ordering process."
The notice in question appeared at the Boots pharmacy in Llandudno Junction and listed three surgeries it said would no longer accept managed repeats. Bodreinallt said a scheduled meeting with local pharmacy colleagues was cancelled and is awaiting rescheduling. The practice urged patients not to be concerned while conversations continue.
What this means for patients
Managed repeat prescription services allow pharmacies to order repeat medication on behalf of patients, often of benefit to those with mobility issues, carers or people who find it difficult to manage their medicines independently. Any change to arrangements would therefore affect patient access and convenience.
- Current status: No change has been agreed or implemented by Bodreinallt Surgery.
- Next steps: The practice and local pharmacies are due to meet to discuss possible alternative arrangements; patients will be informed of any agreed changes.
- Advice to patients: Continue to use existing ordering routes until you are told otherwise; contact your surgery if you have concerns about accessing medication.
Local health providers have a responsibility to give patients adequate notice and support if services change. Bodreinallt told patients they would be given "sufficient notice and support" should any future changes be agreed.
| Surgery | Mentioned in pharmacy notice | Practice response |
|---|---|---|
| Gyffin | Yes | Not yet confirmed (pharmacy notice listed) |
| Bodreinallt | Yes | Denies any final decision; meeting pending |
| Llys Meddyg | Yes | Not confirmed in practice statement |
Patients who rely on managed repeat services should check communications from their own surgery and pharmacy. If you are worried about being able to collect essential medicines from October, contact your GP practice or pharmacist for clarification and, where appropriate, assistance to maintain continuity of care.
Conversations between GP practices and community pharmacies are common as services and funding models evolve. Any agreed change will need to balance patient safety, accessibility and the capacity of both GP practices and pharmacies to manage repeat prescriptions.
We will continue to follow developments and publish updates if formal changes are announced or if further clarifications are issued by the practices or local NHS organisations.
