Frequently Asked Questions
How long will my prescription take?
At Snells Beach Pharmacy, we try to be as prompt and efficient as possible when dispensing your medicines. As well as packaging the correct prescription, we must assess that it is safe and appropriate for the age, weight and condition of the person taking the medicine. Sometimes we need to discuss your treatment with the person who wrote the prescription, but we will always let you know if there will be a delay.
I have a community services card, what does this do?
The Community Services Card (CSC) entitles the holder and their family to a reduction in the cost of prescriptions. If you have a prescription from specialists (orthopedics, psychiatrists, dermatologists, etc.) or dentists, your co-payment will be $5 only for fully-subsidised medicines. However, if a medicine is not fully subsidised, there may be an additional cost. Please ask our staff if you would like to know how much medicines would cost when you hand in your prescription.
What is a prescription subsidy card?
How long is a prescription valid for?
Generally, a prescription is valid for government funding for 3 months (90 days) from the date it is written by a New Zealand registered Doctor.
What does it mean by 'repeats available'?
When the label on your medicine says that there is a “repeat” or “repeats”, it means that a further supply is available from that pharmacy up until the date stated on the label. The Pharmaceutical Management Agency, PHARMAC, sets dispensing frequency for some medicines to 1 month (30 days) at a time, so you can return for a further supply without presenting another prescription.
Can I get my flu shot here?
At this point of time, we are unable to extend this service to our customers. Please refer to our 'Services' page for a comprehensive list of what we do offer.