Thanks Shared by Health Leaders for Engagement on Prescription Ordering Changes

Following a recent engagement period on proposed changes to prescription ordering, health leaders at NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin (NHS STW) are expressing thanks to residents across the county for taking part.

More than 1,500 people shared their views online, by post and in person, ensuring a broad range of perspectives will be heard and considered as part of the next stages of the project.

As part of these upcoming changes, the Prescription Ordering Direct (POD) service is being phased out and will fully close on Friday 28 November 2025. Patients who currently use the POD service are encouraged to plan and arrange alternative ways to order their repeat prescriptions.

Patients can order repeat prescriptions in several ways at most GP practices. However, as options may vary, patients are advised to check with their practice to find out which methods are available.

• NHS App: offers convenience and ease of use and is the recommended option for patients with regular prescription ordering needs.
• GP practice online services: many practices across Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin provide their own secure online portals. Ask at your practice for more information.
• Paper form attached to prescriptions: patients can complete and return the repeat slip to their practice, usually via a dedicated paper prescription box.
• In-person requests at GP practices: some practices may accept requests at reception or by phone.
• Pharmacy services: certain pharmacies offer prescription ordering support such as repeat dispensing.

Minesh Parbat, Chief Pharmaceutical Officer at NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin, said: “We are grateful to everybody who has responded to the survey and our community partners for supporting this engagement, helping us to reach people across the county, including those without online access. Their involvement has been vital in ensuring that feedback reflects the needs of all our patients.

“As the POD service winds down in a phased approach by the end of this month, we recommend that patients check directly with their GP practice to confirm which options are available to them, as services may vary.

“The NHS App remains the recommended method for ordering repeat prescriptions, as it is simple, secure, and accessible at any time. Patients who have not yet downloaded the app are encouraged to do so, as it also provides access to a range of other NHS services.

“Importantly, the feedback gathered during this engagement will be considered alongside the NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin system-wide digital strategy. This is designed to empower residents by supporting the shift from analogue to digital services, in line with the ambitions set out within the Government’s 10 Year Plan for the NHS.”

For further information, please refer to the NHS Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin website: Changes to Prescription Ordering in Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin.