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1. Introduction: What is a cross-border prescription and how does it work in the UK?
2. Paper prescription: What it is, required details, and 5 simple steps to use it.
3. Electronic prescription: Why it doesn’t work in the UK and how to convert it to paper.
4. Finding a pharmacy: How to locate one and note that OTC Direct Plus does not process prescriptions.
5. UK regulations: Key rules for cross-border prescriptions.
6. Patient tips: What to do before travel, at the pharmacy, and after returning.
7. FAQs: Answers to common patient questions.
8. Summary: Key information at a glance.

Introduction

A cross-border prescription lets you buy medicines in the UK using a prescription issued in Poland. Only paper prescriptions are accepted in the UK, as electronic prescriptions (e-prescriptions) are not recognised following Brexit (31 January 2020). This guide explains how to do it, where to find a pharmacy, and what the law says. OTC Direct Plus / Health Shop in the UK does not process cross-border prescriptions.

Paper Prescription

What is it?

A paper prescription is a traditional document issued in Poland that can be used in UK pharmacies, provided it includes specific details.

What must it include?

• Your full name, date of birth, and PESEL number (Polish ID number).
• The doctor’s full name and contact details (e.g., phone number).
• The clinic’s name, address, and the word “Poland”.
• The medicine’s international name (e.g., “paracetamol”), dosage, quantity, and usage instructions.
• The doctor’s signature.
• What cannot be prescribed? Controlled drugs (e.g., psychotropics), compounded medicines, special nutritional products, or medical devices (e.g., dressings).
• Validity: Usually 30 days, but check with the pharmacy as UK rules may differ.

How to use a paper prescription in the UK? (5 steps)

1. Request a prescription: Ask your doctor in Poland for a paper prescription for use in the UK.
2. Find a pharmacy: Contact UK pharmacies to confirm they accept Polish prescriptions. OTC Direct Plus does not process them.
3. Bring documents: Show the prescription and a photo ID (e.g., passport) at the pharmacy.
4. Check availability: The medicine must be registered in the UK. The pharmacist may offer a substitute if available.
5. Pay for the medicine: You’ll pay the full price. Keep the receipt to claim a refund from Poland’s NFZ.

Electronic Prescription (e-prescription)

Why doesn’t it work in the UK?

E-prescriptions are valid in some EU countries (e.g., Finland), but not in the UK, as the UK is no longer part of the EU e-prescription system post-Brexit. You need a paper version.

How to convert an e-prescription?

If you have an e-prescription (code or PDF), ask your doctor in Poland for a paper printout with the required details for the UK.

How to use an e-prescription in the UK? (5 steps)

1. Request a printout: Contact your doctor or clinic in Poland for a paper version of your e-prescription.
2. Check details: Ensure the printout includes all required information (see paper prescription section).
3. Find a pharmacy: Contact UK pharmacies to confirm they accept Polish prescriptions. OTC Direct Plus does not process them.
4. Show documents: Present the printout and a photo ID at the pharmacy.
5. Pay for the medicine: Pay the full price and keep the receipt for an NFZ refund.

How to Find a Pharmacy in the UK?

1. Search online: Visit the NHS website or aptekachemist.co.uk.
2. Call or email: Confirm whether the pharmacy accepts Polish prescriptions and stocks your medicine.
3. Ask the Polish community: Seek advice on Polish community groups (e.g., on Facebook).
4. Important: OTC Direct Plus / Health Shop in the UK does not process cross-border prescriptions.

UK Regulations on Cross-Border Prescriptions

Cross-border prescriptions in the UK are governed by:

• The Human Medicines Regulations 2012: Pharmacists verify the prescription’s authenticity and the medicine’s availability.
• NHS Regulations 2013: Cross-border prescriptions are processed outside the NHS, so you pay the full price.
• GPhC Standards: Pharmacists check the doctor’s and patient’s details.
• MHRA Guidelines: The UK accepts EU paper prescriptions if they meet requirements.

Tips for Patients

• Before travelling: Request a paper prescription or e-prescription printout. Contact a UK pharmacy to check medicine availability.
• At the pharmacy: Bring your prescription and photo ID. Be prepared for a verification fee (e.g., £10).
• After returning: Apply for a refund from Poland’s NFZ with your receipt and prescription copy (nfz.gov.pl).
• Key information:
  • E-prescriptions are not accepted in the UK – you need a paper version.
  • The medicine must be registered in the UK.
  • OTC Direct Plus does not process prescriptions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Summary

To use a Polish prescription in the UK, you need a paper version (e-prescriptions are not accepted). Request one from your doctor, find a pharmacy (excluding OTC Direct Plus), present your documents, and pay for the medicine. You can apply for a refund from Poland’s NFZ afterwards. The process complies with UK laws, including *The Human Medicines Regulations 2012*.