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

These charges apply in England only. In Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales prescriptions are free of charge.

  • The current prescription charge is £9.90 per item 
  • A three monthly PPC is £32.05 and could save you money if you need more than three prescribed items in three months.  
  • A 12-month certificate is £114.50 and could save you money if you need more than 12 prescribed items in a year.
  • a hormone replacement therapy (HRT) PPC costs £19.80 and will save you money if you need more than 2 prescribed qualifying HRT items in a year

A PPC for hormone replacement therapy (HRT) covers an unlimited number of some HRT medicines for 12 months, including if they’re prescribed for something other than menopause symptoms. Find out more about the HRT PPC from the NHS Business Services Authority website.

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. PPCs are available by 10 monthly direct debit instalment payments. The prescription prepayment certificates allow anyone to obtain all the prescriptions they need.

  • Prescription services helpline – 0300 330 1349
  • General Public - Buy or Renew a PPC On-line
  • NHS Low Income Scheme helpline – 0300 330 1343

  • Queries about medical exemption certificates – 0300 330 1341

  • Queries about prescription prepayment certificates (PPCs) – 0300 330 1341

  • Queries about tax credit certificates – 0300 330 1347

  • Call 0300 123 0849 to order a paper copy of the HC12, HC5 and HC1 (SC) forms

  • Call 0300 330 1343 for all other queries

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

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