Practice manager Bronya Glet said it was an 'easy to use' service which had proved extremely popular at other local surgeries.


"I am sure our patients will quickly feel confident using it," she said. "Although it is very easy to use, our staff will be happy to show you how to use it and if you prefer to speak to someone, then you are welcome to stand in the queue as normal.


"Feedback from patients who have used it over the last few days at the surgery has been extremely positive."


There have been other improvements at the surgery, all designed to help patients when telephoning or ordering repeat prescriptions.


Telephone callers will now hear a welcome prompt before being given the option to select the service they require.


"This will ensure calls get answered more quickly than previously and by the appropriate person, saving patients' time," said Bronya.


" Additional telephone lines have also been installed so the practice can handle a higher volume of calls at any one time. Callers will either get through to the choice menu or will hear the engaged tone. If you get the engaged tone, please try again in a few minutes' time," she added.


And patients wanting a repeat presription can now re-order their medication online via the website - www.marketrasensurgery.co.uk - just click on the repeat prescriptions box at the top right of the home page to access the online form. Patients will need to enter the practice number, C83043, and then complete their personal and medication details. Prescriptions will be processed as normal within two working days of receipt of the order.


Bronya said: "For patients who have their medication dispensed at the surgery, we now offer a repeat prescription service. By signing up to this service, we will process your next prescription and ensure it's ready for collection on an agreed date.


"Unfortunately, if you take a medication on an irregular basis, such as for pain relief, we cannot offer this service for that particular item as we will not know when you need your next issue. If you would like to take advantage of this new service, please speak to one of our dispensers."