Prescription Charges and Exemptions

NHS Charges

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

  • Prescription (per item): £9.15
  • 3-month prepayment certificate (PPC): £29.65
  • 12-month prepayment certificate (PPC): £105.90

If you 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.

Telephone advice and order line 0845 850 0030

General Public – Buy or Renew a PPC On-line

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

Medical Exemption Certificates

People with certain medical conditions can get free NHS prescriptions if they have a valid medical exemption certificate.

A medical exemption certificate:

  • entitles you to free NHS prescriptions only
  • doesn’t cover dental treatment or help with other health costs
  • should be shown when you collect a prescription
  • is valid for five years (or until your 60th birthday, whichever is sooner)

It’s your responsibility to check the expiry date, and if you claim free prescriptions after your certificate expires, you could have to pay a penalty charge of up to £100.

Please speak to our reception team about making an application.