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 May 2024 the charges are:

  • current prescription charge – £9.90 per item 
  • 3-month PPC – £32.05; this will save you money if you need more than three prescribed items in three months 
  • 12-month PPC – £114.50; this will save you money if you need more than 12 prescribed items in a year

Find out more about the prescription prepayment certificate.

If you need to access the services below, the medicines you're prescribed are free:

There is further information about prescription exemptions on the NHS website