Without further details I am unable to give a complete reply to the problem this patient encountered obtaining repeat medication. I would however like to say that the prescriber (in this case the GP) takes full responsibility when issuing a prescription for medication, not the consultant who originally suggested that the patient should be on the medication. Most medications are issued for a maximum of 6 repeat issues after which time the prescriber will review the need for the medication which may well include requesting the patient to return to the surgery for a face to face review and or tests. This sometimes may appear obstructive to the patient but is entirely for their own good. Our receptionists have been asked by the GPs to request from the patient the reason for their need for an appointment. This is so that the patient can be directed to the most appropriate person for their need,s and often results in their problem being dealt with without them having to attend the surgery. Patients do of course have the right to refuse to give their reason for requesting to see a GP, and possibly waste not only their own time but that of our scarcest resource - the GP. It should be noted that all staff working in the surgery are bound by the same rules of confidentiality as the GPs. David Clippingdale Practice Manager