Supply of Medication for Patients Travelling Abroad
NHS Policy
By law, the NHS ceases to have responsibility for the medical care of patients when they leave the UK. In addition GPs are not required by their terms of service to provide prescriptions for the treatment of a condition that is not present and may arise while the patient is abroad.
The NHS does accept responsibility for supplying ongoing medication for temporary periods abroad of up to 3 months. However, if a person is going to be abroad for more than 3 months, then they are only entitled (at NHS expense) to a sufficient supply of regular medication in order to get to their destination, where they should then find an alternative supply of that medication.
Patients residing abroad for a period of more than 3 months should be removed from the registered patient list.
Travelling out of the country for less than 3 months
For patients who inform us they will be out of the country for less than 3 months, we will provide sufficient medicines for an existing condition (e.g. asthma, diabetes…) for the period while the patient is away where it is safe to do so. Drugs that require frequent monitoring may not be prescribed where there are safety concerns. Supply of any medication is at the discretion of the GP.
Travelling out of the country for more than 3 months
Patients who inform us they will be leaving the country for more than 3 months will be prescribed sufficient medication to enable them to make alternative arrangements at their destination (up to 3 months’ supply where safe to do so).
They will also be removed from our patient list. We will be pleased to re-register patients on their return to residence in the UK and can reassure patients that their electronic notes are kept on file for reference on your return.
Patients and relatives should not seek medication for themselves while they are abroad as this constitutes NHS fraud.
Prescriptions for medicines in case of illness while abroad.
GP’s will only prescribe NHS prescriptions in this case for exacerbations of pre-existing illnesses. Eg antibiotics for patients who have frequent infections secondary to an underlying lung condition.
GPs may provide private prescriptions if it is clinically appropriate and they can be self-administered safely without medical assessment while abroad. These prescriptions are not free.
Patients should be aware that some drugs commonly prescribed in the UK may be illegal in certain countries and you should check with that country’s embassy before you travel.
Private prescriptions
If you need a private prescription for medication to take with you on holiday, the clinician will ask for details including:
Whether the medication is specifically for use during your holiday abroad.
When, for how long, and where you are travelling.
The reason you’re requesting the medication.
Private prescription charges will apply if you are requesting medication “just in case” for travelling abroad. This could include:
Antibiotics
Oral steroids – this excludes patients with a COPD diagnosis who are prescribed a rescue pack.
Medication for preventing malaria – only as a one-off following discussion with the clinician.
Medication for fear of flying, e.g., Diazepam.
Medication to delay menstruation, e.g., Norethisterone or Medroxyprogesterone.
Repeat prescription medication requested for more than three months’ supply.
It is your responsibility to fully inform the clinician of your reasons for requesting “just in case” medication for travel. The clinician will also advise you that, in addition to the private prescription charge payable to the surgery, you will need to pay for the medication at your chosen pharmacy, as well as a dispensing fee.
The charges for a private prescription for travel-related “just in case” medication are as follows:
Under 16 years old: £10.00 per medication.
Over 16 years old: £20.00 per medication.