News

Practice Update - Patient led ordering

The way repeat prescriptions are ordered is changing. For most patients, this means that instead of their local pharmacy ordering their prescriptions for them, they will need to request medication directly from their GP practice. 

This will be happening from the start of October.

The NHS App is the safest and easiest way for patients to request their repeat prescription – giving them more control over their healthcare and taking away the hassle of unnecessary trips to the GP practice. 

The app is easy to use, with a ‘Help’ section within the app to guide patients if they hit a problem, and allows patients to choose where their prescription is sent. Patients can also order their prescriptions at any time that suits them. There’s no need to wait to join a telephone queue or wait until the GP 
surgery opens.

Patients who are unable to order their medication by any of the recommended routes, are vulnerable and/or housebound, will be supported by their 
GP and local pharmacy.

What do I do now?

• Download the NHS App. You can do this via the Apple Store or Google Play. You can set up an NHS account and log in via the NHS App webpage if you would prefer to use a PC. 
• Set up online prescription ordering. 
• Make sure your GP practice is aware if you, or someone you care about, may struggle to order their prescriptions.

If you already order your repeat prescriptions online, via the NHS App or another online platform used by your GP practice, these changes will not affect 
you.

If in Doubt, Check it Out

We’re pleased to be working with the Greater Manchester Cancer Alliance to promote their “If in Doubt, Check it Out” campaign over the coming months. The campaign, featuring GPs and other primary care staff from across Greater Manchester, seeks to highlight the importance of early diagnosis, which can make a crucial difference in how treatable cancer is.

Many people delay seeking medical help due to fear, uncertainty, or not wanting to “bother” their doctor—but this campaign wants to change that mindset. Others worry that it will be too hard to get a GP appointment – another myth the campaign seeks to debunk.

Dr Sarah Taylor, Early Diagnosis Lead at Greater Manchester Cancer Alliance, said: “We know that people sometimes put off seeing their GP when they’re worried. But doctors want to see patients who are worried about cancer as soon as possible. If you are you experiencing any unusual symptoms that could be cancer, don’t delay – contact your GP today.

“The chances are your symptoms aren’t cancer – but if they are – the sooner we find cancer, the easier it is to treat. If in doubt, you should always check it out.”

The NHS advise that it’s important to be aware of any new or worrying symptoms. Although it’s unlikely to be cancer, it’s important to speak to a GP so they can investigate. Finding cancer early means it’s easier to treat.

Some symptoms to look out for include: coughing, chest pain and breathlessness for three weeks of more, lumps, changes in bowel habits, bloating, bleeding, changes to moles, unexplained weight loss, tummy or back pain, indigestion and heartburn, itchy or yellow skin, feeling tired and unwell.

For more information about cancer symptoms and when to seek help, visit the NHS cancer information page: www.nhs.uk/conditions/cancer.

IMPORTANT - Update on Mounjaro prescribing in Greater Manchester

Update on Mounjaro prescribing in Greater Manchester

From 23^rd June 2025 weight loss injections are being made available on the NHS for patients meeting a strict criteria.

Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) is not currently available anywhere in Greater Manchester, including GP practices, hospitals, or specialist weight management services.

Please do not contact your GP to request it — you’ll be contacted directly if you’re eligible when the service becomes available in your area.

We expect pilot services may begin in some areas in summer 2025, with wider rollout taking more time.

Patients who are currently receiving Mounjaro (or similar) for their diabetes management will continue to do so.

Please visit the link below for Weight management in Greater Manchester for further information.

https://gmintegratedcare.org.uk/weight-management-in-greater-manchester/

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Awareness Week

This week is Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Awareness Week! AMR happens when bacteria, viruses etc. evolve to resist the medicines that treat them. This makes infections harder to cure, putting lives at risk.

Here’s how we can all help fight AMR:

• Use antibiotics responsibly: Only take them when prescribed by a healthcare professional.
• Complete your full treatment course: Even if you feel better, finish the entire prescription.
• Prevent infections: Practice good hygiene, get vaccinated, and avoid sharing medications.

Let’s work together to protect the effectiveness of these essential medicines. Join us in raising awareness and taking action against antimicrobial resistance!