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.
Get help with prescription costs
Prescription prepayment certificates (PPC) are available in England and can save you money.
NHS prescription costs
- current prescription charge – £9.35 per item (£17.20 per pair of elastic hosiery)
- three-month PPC – £30.25; this will save you money if you need more than three prescribed items in three months
- 12-month PPC – £108.10; this will save you money if you need more than 12 prescribed items in a year
PPCs are available by 10 monthly direct debit instalment payments. The certificates allow anyone to obtain all the prescriptions they need for £2 a week.
Useful Numbers
Dental services helpline
0300 330 1348
NHS Low Income Scheme helpline
0300 330 1343
Prescription services helpline
0300 330 1349
Queries about medical exemption certificates
0300 330 1341
Queries about prescription prepayment certificates (PPCs)
0300 330 1341
Queries about tax credit certificates
0300 330 1347
Call 0300 123 0849 to order a paper copy of the HC12, HC5 and HC1 (SC) forms
Call 0300 330 1343 for all other queries