Repeat prescription
Repeat prescription explained in plain English: what it means, what to ask and how it relates to Australian online care.
By Doccio Clinical Team · Sources reviewed September 2026
“Repeat prescription” can mean two different things: another authorised supply on an existing prescription, or a request for a new prescription for treatment you already use. These are different processes. A remaining repeat is handled by a pharmacy; a new prescription requires an appropriate prescribing decision. Australian Digital Health Agency eScript guidance
Check which task you need
Look at the current prescription information or ask your pharmacist whether an authorised repeat remains. If it does, you may not need to book a new consultation simply to obtain that supply. Timing, validity and other dispensing requirements still apply.
If no repeats remain, explain that when contacting the prescriber. Bring the current treatment details, the reason it was prescribed and any monitoring or review information. Having used something before does not mean a new doctor can safely continue it without assessment.
A renewal is a clinical review
Tell the doctor about changes in health, unwanted effects, pregnancy or plans for pregnancy, and treatment from other services. Mention how much supply remains. Do not wait until the last moment if ongoing treatment needs periodic monitoring or records from another clinician. Medical Board telehealth guidelines
The doctor may prescribe, ask for more information, recommend tests or advise an in-person appointment. They decide what is appropriate. A service described as repeat prescriptions is not a promise that every previous treatment can be renewed online.
Keep the costs and responsibilities clear
Doccio's repeat prescription assessment is listed at $29. Check the current service terms and pricing. Pharmacy supply costs are separate. Paying for assessment does not guarantee a prescription or establish the price charged by the pharmacy. Doccio’s published service pricing
Before finishing the consultation, ask when the next review should occur and who will provide it. If you are at risk of running out of important treatment, contact your pharmacist or treating clinician promptly for advice about the appropriate pathway rather than borrowing another person's supply or changing the dose yourself.
References
Sources reviewed September 2026.
- Australian Digital Health Agency. Electronic prescriptions
- Medical Board of Australia. Telehealth consultations with patients
- Doccio. Pricing — live service information checked 30 September 2026
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