The National Health Service (NHS) generally provides health care free of charge but there are some fixed charges that must be paid for including prescription medicines. Depending on your personal circumstances and age you may be entitled to help with these charges.
The Department of Health and Social Care reviews the NHS prescription charge for England annually with any changes coming into effect on the 1st April each year.
Full details of NHS prescription charges can be found at nhs.uk.
For more information on Prescription Charges follow this link.
Free Prescriptions
Details of who is eligible for free prescriptions is available fron the nhs.uk.
Electronic Prescription Service
The Electonic Prescription Service (EPS), introduced at the end of 2019, enables your GP practice to send your prescription electronically to the place you choose to get your medication or appliance from – without the need for paper in some cases. This means there is less need for people with repeat prescriptions to call at their GP practice just to collect a prescription form.
Full details of the The Electonic Prescription Service are available at nhs.uk.
A guide with FAQs is also available at this link
Prescription prepayment certificates (PPC)
Prescription prepayment certificates (PPC) for 3 months or 12 months are available in England and they can save you a considerable about of money if you require regular prescribed medicines.Full information on PPC's is available at nhs.uk.
PPC's are available to buy online or by calling the PPC order line on 0300 330 1341 or in-person at some pharmacies
Medical Exemption Certificate
If you have certain medical conditions you can get free NHS prescriptions if they hold a valid Medical Exemption Certificate. For more information click here.
Maternity Exemption Certificate
If you are pregnant or have had a baby within the last 12 months you are entitled to a Maternity Exemption Certificate. For more information click here
A guide, Free prescriptions and NHS dental care in pregnancy, is available from AdviserBook.
NHS Low Income Scheme (LIS)
If you have a low income, you may be able to get help with NHS costs through the NHS Low Income Scheme (LIS). For more information click here.
If you or your partner are in receipt of certain benefits you may be entitled to help with health costs and travel costs.
Full details of how to claim the money to which you are entitled, a list of downloadable leaflets and importantant phone numbers providing advice on financial help are available at the following links:
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