Prescriptions
Prescription Fees
Help with NHS costs
In England, around 90% of prescription items are dispensed free. This includes exemptions from charging for those on low incomes, such as:
- those on specific benefits or through the NHS Low Income Scheme
- those who are age exempt
- those with certain medical conditions
- More information is available at NHS Choices
NHS Charges
These charges apply in England only. In Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales prescriptions are free of charge.
- Prescription (per item): £9.90
- 12-month prepayment certificate (PPC): £114.50
- 3-month PPC: £32.05
- 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
If you will have to pay for four or more prescription items in three months or more than 11 items in 12 months, you may find it cheaper to buy a PPC.
- Telephone advice and order 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.