When your hospital or private consultant recommends a new medication or change to your existing prescription, we understand that you may want this actioned quickly. To ensure safe prescribing and continuity of care, we follow a clear and consistent process.
How We Manage Consultant Medication Requests
- We will review and action any new medication requests or changes to your existing medication within 7 working days of receiving a formal letter from your consultant.
- Our clinical team will assess whether the requested medication is suitable and safe in the context of your full medical record, NHS prescribing guidance, and any relevant monitoring requirements.
- You will be contacted if we need further information or are unable to prescribe the medication in the way requested.
When Does the 7 Working Day Period Begin?
The 7-working-day timeframe begins on the date we receive the formal letter from your consultant, not the date of your appointment. If you are unsure whether your consultant has sent us a letter, please check with them directly. You are welcome to email us a copy of the letter or drop it in at reception if you have it yourself.
What If I Need the Medication Urgently?
NHS and private consultants are responsible for providing a minimum 14-day supply of any new medication they initiate.
This is standard practice across the NHS to allow your GP time to review the change and continue prescribing safely if appropriate.If you have not been issued a short-term supply, please contact your consultant directly to arrange this. We understand that delays can be frustrating, especially when you are managing a new condition.
Please rest assured that we prioritise all consultant medication requests and aim to complete them as quickly and safely as possible.
What if there are other actions my consultant has requested?
If your hospital consultant has suggested further actions—such as referring you to another specialist or arranging follow-up tests—these requests will be reviewed by the referring GP or your usual GP. However, please note:
Consultants are contractually responsible for making onward referrals and arranging appropriate follow-up as part of your specialist care. The British Medical Association (BMA) has clearly stated that passing this workload to GPs is inappropriate and creates unnecessary delays for patients.
If your consultant has asked your GP to make a referral that they should have done themselves, we may ask the hospital to take the necessary action in line with NHS guidance and their contractual obligations.