12 Month Prescription Changes - 1 February 2026

As announced by the government, from 1 February 2026, practitioners will be able to issue prescriptions for up to 12 months, where it is safe and clinically appropriate.

 

It is important to note that 12 month prescriptions will be suitable only for a small number of patients, generally those who are on one stable, long term medication that does not require frequent monitoring.

 

For patients who take multiple medications, or medications that require regular review, blood tests, or dose adjustments, it is unlikely that a full 12 month prescription will be appropriate.  In these situations, shorter intervals, such as 3 or 6 months, will continue to be safer and more consistent with best practice care.

 

While the pharmacy will still dispense your medicines every 3 months, the decision about the length of your prescription will depend on your individual health needs, monitoring requirements and clinical assessment.

 

All requests for 12 month prescriptions will be at your practitioner's discretion and assessment.  If you would like to discuss the option of 12 month prescribing, please make an appointment to speak to your practitioner.