From 30 March, patients registered at Levenwick Health Centre will now have their prescriptions prepared and checked by a community pharmacy.
Community pharmacies will then deliver medicines to Levenwick Health Centre for collection – keeping this the same as is in place just now.
Additionally, there will also be the option to collect medicines directly from the pharmacy in Lerwick.
Patients will still order prescriptions in the same ways as before, by either leaving a message on the repeat prescription phoneline or by using the online ordering system (Patient Access). The aim is to keep the same seven-day turnaround time for receiving medicines that patients currently experience.
This system is already in place in five other health centre areas in Shetland, where a pharmacist checks each prescription before medicines are supplied. This provides an additional safety check.
Staff at the health centre will continue to support patients with any queries relating to prescriptions and medicines, as well as being supported by the pharmacy preparing and supplying the medicines for collection.
When the change starts
- From 30 March 2026 – Boots Pharmacy Lerwick will begin preparing prescriptions for Levenwick patients
- Then from 20 April 2026 – Freefield Pharmacy will also support the service, offering a choice of pharmacies
Delivery to Levenwick Health Centre
- Medicines will be delivered three times each week by both pharmacies.
Prescription turnaround
- Our aim is to keep the same seven-day turnaround time patients currently experience.
Important
- Please make sure you order medicines at least seven days before you need them.
- Please continue to allow for seven days from ordering your medicines to collecting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will I still collect my medicines from Levenwick Health Centre?
Yes. The normal arrangement will remain that you collect medicines from Levenwick Health Centre.
The pharmacy prepares the medicines and they are delivered to the health centre for collection. You can also choose to collect medicines directly from a pharmacy in Lerwick if this is more convenient.
Why is this change happening?
Across Shetland, most prescriptions are prepared by community pharmacies. Pharmacists specialise in preparing and checking medicines, while the health centre team focuses on your medical care and treatment. This helps ensure the right professionals are doing the right parts of your care.
How do I order my prescription?
You can order prescriptions in the same ways as before:
- Leave a message on the repeat prescription phone line
- Use the online ordering system (Patient Access)
When ordering you will be asked:
- Where you would like to collect your medicines
- Which pharmacy should prepare your prescription
If you do not state a preference, we will assume you want to collect from Levenwick Health Centre.
Which pharmacies will prepare prescriptions?
- From 30 March 2026 – Boots Pharmacy Lerwick
- From 20 April 2026 – Freefield Pharmacy
Will this slow down how I receive my medicines?
No. Our aim is to keep the same seven-day turnaround time that you currently experience.
Why has my prescription changed to 56 days?
Some repeat prescriptions will change to 56-day supplies where appropriate. This means you do not need to order medicines as often - every two months instead of every month. Some medicines cannot be issued this way and the team can explain why if you are unsure.
What if I need medicine urgently?
Levenwick Health Centre will continue to keep a stock of medicines for urgent treatment.
If you attend the health centre and need treatment straight away, staff can still supply medicines such as antibiotics, pain relief and other essential medicines.
Where can I get more information?
- Ask the health centre team when collecting medicines
- Read the information leaflet available at the health centre
- Check the practice website for updates in the next two weeks
- Listen to the updated phone message for ordering instructions.
Between now and 30 March, the team will be happy to talk through the changes when you collect medicines.
Questions
For questions or concerns, please contact:
Levenwick Health Centre
01950 461 222
The team will be happy to help.