Winter is a busy time for healthcare services, and NHS 111 always experiences a surge in calls for urgent repeat prescriptions over the bank holiday.

Last winter (December 2023 – February 2024), NHS 111 received over 18,000 calls for repeat prescriptions alone, making it the third most common reason for calling during that period. We want to keep our lines clear for those who need urgent health advice and help.

Paul Johnston, Integrated Contact Centres (ICC) Service Delivery Manager for NHS 111, stresses the importance of planning ahead this Christmas, “By ordering your repeat prescriptions in advance, you can help ease the pressure on our health services, like NHS 111, and ensure you have everything you need over the holidays. Running out of essential medication can have serious consequences, and we want you to enjoy a healthy, stress-free festive season.”

He adds: “Please also remember to only order what you actually need. Every year, a significant amount of medication goes to waste. Before requesting your prescription, check what you already have at home and only order what you are running low on.”

For more information on ordering prescriptions online: https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/online-services/how-to-order-a-repeat-prescription/