A GPs’ surgery in Dorset has installed a futuristic ATM-style machine to allow patients to collect their prescriptions 24 hours a day.

The Sixpenny Handley & Chalke Valley Practice installed the Pharmaself24 medicine collection point last Friday.

John White, 91, of Farnham, a patient of the practice for more than 60 years, cut the ribbon and was the first person to collect his medicine from the dispenser, remarking how easy it was to use. Dr Mark Morgan said: “It is one of the first, if not the first machine to be installed in Dorset and probably the South West. It offers hugely improved covid-19 safety when collecting medicine. It is fast, convenient and open 24/7, even over Christmas.”

Patients with repeat prescriptions order their medicines on their personal account on SystmOnline. The medicines will usually be available from the hole-in-the-wall dispenser within 72 hours. Most orders will soon be available for collection within 12 hours. This service is faster than online pharmacy services, does not require third-parties to hold patient information, plus patients don’t have to wait in.

With prescribed repeat medicines now available for collection 24 hours a day, 365 days a year (including Christmas), patients can collect as usual during the day, and those working shifts or working further away from home can come in the early morning, at night, or over the weekend and bank holidays.

Dr Mark added: “I am very excited as it offers a brilliant option in our remote communities, spreading over much of the Cranborne Chase. It will help to reduce the number of people having to call out of hours services at weekends when they forget to pick up their medicines within normal working hours.”
The machines are widespread in Holland and are spreading across Wales, Scotland and northern areas.

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