Greenhalgh bemoans the fact that repeat prescribing has become a chore and generated its own bureaucracy.1 Much of the hassle is self-inflicted.
My hypertension was diagnosed while I was serving in the Army. Once it was brought under control I was reviewed every 6 months and was given a prescription for 6 months supply of medication. On retiring and coming under NHS care, I was still reviewed 6-monthly but was only trusted with a month’s supply of medication at a time on the basis of PCT guidelines.
I fully understand that some patients cannot manage 6 months’ supply of medication and in my days as an NHS GP I emptied older patients’ drug cupboards of hoarded drugs.
My challenge to you is to regard guidelines as what they really are, practice the personalised, patient-centred care, which you all espouse, and trust those of us who can manage their drugs by prescribing reasonable amounts and go back and enjoy coffee, cake, and the conviviality of an informal meeting with your colleagues and make repeat prescribing less of a chore. Are there any good reasons why you should not?
- © British Journal of General Practice 2013
