Electronic Repeat Dispensing (eRD)
What is eRD?
Electronic Repeat Dispensing (eRD) allows your GP practice to send a batch of repeat prescriptions to your nominated pharmacy in advance. This means you don’t need to request a new prescription each time you run out of your regular medication.
How does it work?
We can authorise a batch of prescriptions to cover up to 12 months of medication (depending on your review schedule and condition). These prescriptions are stored electronically and automatically sent to your chosen pharmacy at regular intervals – usually every 28 or 56 days.
Do I need to request a new prescription each time?
No. If you are on eRD, your prescriptions will be automatically available at your pharmacy when they are due. You only need to contact the practice when:
- You are nearing the end of your batch (your pharmacist can tell you how many are left),
- There has been a change to your medication,
- You have been asked to book a medication review or blood test,
- Or your pharmacy advises that there is no further batch available.
What should I do if my pharmacy says they don’t have my prescription?
Sometimes, pharmacies may not download the next prescription batch automatically. If this happens, ask your pharmacist to check whether your next prescription is available on the NHS Spine under Electronic Repeat Dispensing. If the batch has ended, your pharmacist will advise you to contact the practice.
I’ve just registered with GP at Hand – what happens to my eRD prescriptions?
When you register with a new GP practice, any existing eRD prescriptions from your previous practice are automatically cancelled as part of the registration process. You should request a pharmacist appointment to review your medications. Once this is complete and your repeat medications have been confirmed, we can restart your eRD at your nominated pharmacy.
How can I tell if I’m on eRD?
If you collect your regular medications from the same pharmacy each time and rarely need to request prescriptions from the practice, you are likely on eRD. You can confirm this by asking your pharmacy.
Benefits of eRD
Helps ensure you always have your regular medication on time.
Saves time – no need to order each prescription.
Reduces delays and admin for both patients and the practice.