Prescription fees

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

NHS prescription costs

  • The current prescription charge is £8.40 per item (£16.80 per pair of elastic hosiery).
  • A three monthly PPC is £29.10 and could save you money if you need more than three prescribed items in three months.
  • A 12-month certificate is £104.00 and could save you money if you need more than 12 prescribed items in a year.

Pre-Payment (PPC)

If you usually have to pay for four or more prescription items in three months, or more than 14 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 for £2 per week.

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