Prescriptions Charges and Exemptions
Extensive exemption and remission arrangements protect those likely to have difficulty in paying charges (NHS prescription and dental charges, optical and hospital travel costs).The NHS prescription charge is a flat-rate amount which successive Governments have thought it 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.
NHS charges
- Prescription (per item): £9.90
- 12-month prepayment certificate (PPC): £114.50 (this can be paid by Direct Debit over 10 months)
- 3-month PPC: £32.05
- If you regularly pay for one or more prescription items each month you will find it cheaper to buy a PPC. The charge for a single prescription item is £9.90, whereas a 12 month PPC £114.50 (£9.54 per month for one item). A 12 month PPC for HRT is £19.80
- PPC telephone advice line 0300 330 1341
- General Public - Buy or Renew a PPC On-line
There is further information about prescription exemptions and fees on the NHS website