Prescription charges and exemptions

The NHS prescription charge is a flat-rate amount which the government thinks is reasonable to charge for those who can afford to pay for their medicines. Prescription prepayment certificates (PPCs) offer real savings for people who need extensive medication.

Patients who are aged under 18 or over 60 do not pay for their prescriptions.

Patients with certain long-term conditions specified by NHS England can complete an exemption form to avoid paying for prescriptions - ask in the dispensary for more information on which conditions are included.

The NHS offers a number of arrangements to help those likely to have difficulty in paying charges.

There is further information about prescription exemptions and fees on the NHS website

Not everyone can claim for free NHS prescriptions in England - Do you think you are entitled to free prescriptions?  Click here for more information

 


NHS charges

These charges apply in England only.

Prescription (per item): £9.65 (from 1st April 2021).  

  • 12-month prepayment certificate (PPC): £111.60
  • 3-month prepayment certificate: £31.25

If you will have to pay for four or more prescription items in three months, or more than 15 items in 12 months, you may find it cheaper to buy a PPC.

As from the 1st May 2024 Prescription charges will be going up.

The increase for 1 item will be going up from £9.65 to £9.90 

  • 3 month prepayment certificate: £32.05 (increase of £0.80)
  • 12 month prepayment certificate: £114.50  (increase of £2.90)

HRT Prepayment - £19.80 (increase of £0.50p)

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