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 from 01 April 2023
These charges apply in England only. In Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales prescriptions are free of charge.
- Prescription (per item): £9.65
- Prescription Prepayment Certificate – 3 month - £31.65
- Prescription Prepayment Certificate – 12 month - £111.60
- Prescription Prepayment Certificate - HRT - £19.30
If you will have to pay for four or more prescription items in three months, or more than 12 items in 12 months, you may find it cheaper to buy a PPC.
Charges for prescriptions and prescription prepayment certificates (PPCs) will increase by 2.59% (rounded to the nearest 5 pence) from 1 May 2024. Charges for wigs and fabric supports will increase by the same rate.
A prescription will cost £9.90 for each medicine or appliance dispensed, an increase of 25 pence. The 3-month PPC will cost £32.05 and the 12-month PPC will cost £114.50.
The hormone replacement therapy (HRT) PPC will cost £19.80, an increase of 50 pence. This is because the rate is set at twice the single prescription charge.
There is further information about prescription exemptions and fees on the NHS website