What to write in a repeat prescription request email

A repeat prescription request email (sometimes called a medication refill request) can be brief. The key is to make clear who the request is for, which current medicine you mean, and how the practice can contact you. Follow the practice’s own instructions if they ask for a form, portal or different details.

What should a repeat prescription request include?

Before you write, check the practice’s website or patient information for its required channel and details. In general, prepare:

• The patient’s name and only the identifier the practice asks you to use, such as a date of birth or patient number.
• The medicine name and strength, copied from the current packaging or medication list. Don’t rely on memory if the name or strength is unclear.
• The quantity or pack size, only if the practice asks for it.
• A preferred pharmacy or collection method, if the practice needs that information.
• A way to contact you if the practice needs to clarify the request.

Use an email address or online service the practice accepts. Include only the personal information it requests through that channel.

Copyable repeat prescription request email template

Subject: Repeat prescription request for [patient name]

Hello [practice or clinician name],

Please review my request for a repeat prescription for:
[medicine name and strength]
[add another medicine, if needed]

[Add quantity or pack size only if the practice asks for it.]
[Add a preferred pharmacy or collection method, if relevant.]

Patient name: [full name]
[Add the identifier requested by the practice, if any.]

Please let me know if you need any other information.

Kind regards,
[your name and contact details]

Remove any line that doesn’t apply. If you are requesting on someone else’s behalf, identify yourself and say how you are connected to the patient; the family guide below covers that situation.

Questions about requesting a repeat prescription

Can I email my doctor to request a repeat prescription?

Only if the practice accepts requests by email. Some practices use an online portal, a form, an app or another route. Check its current instructions before sending personal information.

Should I include the dose or how often the medicine is taken?

Use the exact medicine name and strength shown on the current packaging or list. Add dose or frequency only if the practice requests it and you can confirm the information. If the medicine, strength or treatment has changed, contact the practice instead of guessing.

How far ahead should I request a repeat prescription?

Processing times and request windows vary. Follow the timing published by the practice and contact it directly if you’re unsure or the request is time-sensitive.

Preparing a request with Ernst

Ernst can help you keep regular medicine details together and prepare a message to review. You choose the communication app, then check and send the request there; the practice decides whether to issue a prescription. See the privacy policy for how saved details and the optional photo scan are handled.

More: Ernst for patients · Requesting a repeat prescription for someone else · Help and common questions