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

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

  • Prescription (per item): £9.65
  • 12-month prepayment certificate (PPC): £111.60
  • 3-month PPC: £31.25

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

There are 4 ways you can obtain a prescription prepayment certificate:

  • on line - complete and submit a PPC (FP95) application form on the NHS Business Service Authority website and pay by debit or credit card
  • by phone - 0300 330 1341, and pay by debit or credit card
  • by post - pick up an FP95 application form from any GP surgery or pharmacy or download and print the form (PDF< 52KB), then send the completed form with your cheque, postal order, credit card or debit card details to the address shown on the form.
  • at a registered pharmacy - you can buy a PPC at a registered pharmacy if the pharmacy is registered and you don't need to complete payment details on the form, as you can pay the pharmacy directly.
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