Choosing your pharmacist (chemist)

	You can decide which pharmacist you use to dispense your prescriptions. Medicines or appliances should come in suitable and properly labelled containers with clear instructions. Ask your pharmacist to explain the instructions to you if you are not sure
	Your pharmacist will deal with your prescription as quickly as possible

Prescriptions outside normal hours

Your Health and Social Services Board is responsible for making sure you can get urgent prescriptions outside normal hours including weekends. You can get more details from:

	your pharmacist
	your doctor's surgery
	local newspapers
	the GP who gave you the prescription

Free prescriptions

You can get free prescriptions if:

	you are under 16
	you are a full-time student under 19
	you are over 60
	you are pregnant, or the mother of a child up to one year old
	you suffer from certain medical conditions
	you get certain benefits

You may also be able to get free prescriptions if you don't have much money coming in. You can get more information from your pharmacist or local social security office. Leaflet HC11 which you can get from social security offices, post offices or from the Central Services Agency gives more details.

Prescription charges

	Unless you are entitled to free prescriptions, you will have to pay for each item you get on prescription
	Your pharmacist will as you to sign the back of the prescription form
	Your pharmacist will ask you for proof that you do not have to pay
	If you need a lot of prescriptions you may be able to save money by buying a 'season ticket' from your pharmacist
	If you have paid for a prescription and think you are entitled to free prescriptions, ask your pharmacist for form PS7
	You should fill this in within three months of paying for your prescription

Getting your prescription

Except in cases of emergency you can only get your medicine from the pharmacist if you have got a prescription from your doctor.

Remember

	You don't need a pill for every ill
	Always follow instructions carefully
	Always finish your course of treatment
	Do not share prescription medicines
	Always store medicines where children can't see or reach them
	Your pharmacist will destroy any medicines you no longer need

If things go wrong

If you have any worries or questions about your medicine ask your pharmacist for advice. If you are not satisfied with your treatment, talk it over with the pharmacist. For more information on how to complain contact your Health and Social Services Council.

You have a right to be treated politely
with respect for your privacy and dignity.