If you have recently received an invitation for a medication review, you should wait until you have had your Long Term Condition Review before attending your medication review. The following conditions are eligible for condition reviews:
Non-urgent advice: Types of Long Term Condition Reviews
- Diabetes
- Asthma
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
- Hypertension
- Atrial Fibrilation
- Severe Mental Illness
- Learning Disabilities
- Dementia
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD)
- Coronary Heart Disease (CHD)
- Stroke and Transient Ischemic Attach (TIA)
- Heart Failure
- At-risk of Diabetes monitoring
- Thyroid monitoring
- Cardiovascular Disease
- Peripheral Arterial Disease
Non-urgent advice: How to book
Each invitation will contain details on how to book. Not all invitations are the same, so we cannot cover every eventuality on this webpage. If you have lost your letter, please ask at reception for a copy, which can be printed or sent via SMS.
What is a Long Term Condition review?
We have systems in place to ensure that you are recalled on an annual basis. If you have a long term condition which requires medication you need to follow advice and attend appropriate tests and booked appointments. Attending these reviews allow us to monitor your condition and make adjustments to medications, etc.
Failure to do so may result in your condition getting worse and clinicians may reduce the number of tablets they are prepared to prescribe ie make your prescriptions weekly.
If we work together, we will get the best results.
What do I need to do before booking my review?
Blood Pressure
Your appointment invitation will let you know if you need to provide an up-to-date blood pressure reading. You do not need an appointment to check your blood pressure, this can be done at home using your own machine or by using our blood pressure pods, available at all surgeries.
Long Term Condition Reviews
Why are reviews important?
As a prescriber, we are responsible for ensuring that medication is safe and appropriate to prescribe to patients. Monitoring helps us ensure that each medication is not having any side effects or negative impacts on your health. We may decide to reduce the issue quantity, pause or stop prescribing for patients who do not attend the necessary tests, as we are unable to confirm it is being used safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I have a Long Term Condition Review?
Most Long Term Condition reviews happen once per year, but some have an interim review, e.g. once every six months.
What happens if I miss my Long Term Condition review appointment?
If you miss your appointment, it is important to reschedule as soon as possible. Long Term Condition reviews are essential for monitoring your condition and medication. Long Term Condition reviews are longer than standard appointments, so “Did Not Attends” have a drastic impact on our team. Please cancel and rebook your appointment if you cannot attend.
Can I bring someone with me to the Long Term Condition review?
Yes, you are welcome to bring a family member, caregiver, or friend to your medication review. Having support during the review can help you remember the information discussed and make informed decisions about your health care.
What if I have concerns about the changes suggested during my Long Term Condition review?
If you have concerns about any changes suggested during your appointment, discuss them openly with your nurse or doctor. They can provide explanations and might adjust your treatment plan to better suit your needs and preferences.
Will changes to my medication happen immediately after the review?
Any changes to your medication regimen will be thoroughly discussed with you during the review. Adjustments may be made immediately or scheduled for a future date, depending on your specific circumstances. Your healthcare provider will ensure you are fully informed and comfortable with any changes.
Why has my medication been reduced?
Clinicians are unable to safely prescribe medication without having up-to-date monitoring (e.g. bloods, blood pressure, weight, etc) and therefore are unable to complete annual medication reviews.
My medication has been reduced, even though it doesn’t relate to my Long Term Condition. Why?
Other medications can have an impact on your Long Term Conditions, so it is important to get monitoring when required.
If the quantity of my medication has been reduced, can it be increased once an appointment has been booked?
No, it will remain reduced until you have attended any relevant appointments or monitoring.
What happens when my medication has been reduced?
Your medication will need to be ordered weekly instead of monthly.
