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

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

•Prescription (per item): £9.15

•12-month prepayment certificate (PPC): £104.00

•3-month PPC: £29.10

If you will 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.

A prescription prepayment certificate (PPC) could save you money on NHS prescription costs. You can follow the attached link to find our more about PPC’s. https://www.nhs.uk/using-the-nhs/help-with-health-costs/save-money-with-a-prescription-prepayment-certificate-ppc/

NHS Penalty Charges

If you incorrectly claim free NHS prescriptions or free or reduced cost dental treatment, you’re at risk of getting a Penalty Charge Notice.

In England, patients pay for their NHS prescriptions and NHS dental treatment. This is an important source of funding for the NHS.

Each year, the NHS loses significant funds due to people claiming free prescriptions or dental treatment they weren’t entitled to. This directly reduces the money available for core patient care.

The NHS Business Services Authority carry out checks on patient claims. If they cannot confirm during their checks that a patient was entitled to claim free NHS prescriptions or NHS dental treatment, they’ll be sent an enquiry letter asking them to confirm their entitlement. If they do not respond within 28 days, they’ll be sent a Penalty Charge Notice.

For more information on Penalty Charges please follow the attached link to the Business Authority website. https://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/nhs-penalty-charges