Prescription Fees

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.

When going aborad you can take your NHS medications with you.

NHS England - Help with Health Costs

To find out whether you can receive help with covering health costs, take a look at NHS website.  Alternatively view a quick guide to help with health costs (HC12).

The practice is unfortunately unable to print copies of these guides for you and we do not hold copies of the claims forms that you require, you will need to contact NHS England directly to request a form (numbers below).

Important numbers that you may need to contact for help with health costs:

NHS Charges

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

  • Prescription (per item): £9.35
  • 12-month prepayment certificate (PPC): £108.10
  • 3-month PPC: £30.25

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.

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