Prescription Ordering Direct (POD) pilot closure

Information about the closure of the Prescription Ordering Direct (POD) service.

POD was introduced in six GP practices in Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent as a pilot in 2024. This pilot is now coming to an end, meaning that if you are registered at one of the six GP practices using POD and you currently use the service, you will no longer be able to order your repeat prescriptions this way in future. Instead, your practice will switch back to the standard processes for ordering repeat prescriptions. Information is listed below about this change. If you cannot find an answer to your question below, please contact your GP practice via the usual routes.

Why is the POD service ending?

The POD service was a pilot project that is now coming to an end across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent. The six practices that were involved in the pilot with now be moving towards standard process for ordering prescriptions as detailed below.

When can I use the POD service until?

If you currently use the POD service to order your prescriptions, you can:

• Use the online form until 12pm on Thursday 26 February 2026
• Make telephone requests until 4pm on Friday 27 February 2026

New patients will no longer be accepted into the service from 12 January 2026.

How do I order repeat prescriptions after 27 February 2026?

From 28 February, you can order repeat prescriptions in the usual ways. This includes:

• Via the NHS App. If you are not familiar with using the NHS App, you can find out more information on our NHS App webpage. This includes information about the app and getting support from local libraries across Staffordshire and Stoke-on-Trent on downloading and getting started on the app
• Using your practice’s electronic ordering system, if one is available
• By emailing your GP practice
• Repeat paper prescription token – tick the prescription item/s you need on the copy of the prescription list you have and either post it to the practice via Royal Mail or drop it off at the practice directly.

Please remember to only order what you need. It is important to check what medicines you have at home before placing your repeat prescription order. Repeat items still remain on your prescription, even if you don’t order them every month.