Prescription 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 certificiates (PPCs) offer real savings for people who need extensive medication.
NHS Charges
From 1st April 2009, the charges are:
- Prescription (per item) : £7.20
- 12 month prepayment certificate (PPC) : £104.00
- 3 month PPC : £28.25
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.
NHS Low Income Scheme (claim form HC1)
The NHS Low Income Scheme Provides help for those who don't automatically qualify for help with health costs such as prescription charges, but who find it difficult to pay. Anyone can apply using claim form HC1 as long as they don't have savings or capital of more than £16,000 (£23,250 for those permanently in a care home).
If anybody have difficulty completing forms a form completion service is available by ringing 0845 850 1166.
Prescription Pre-Payment Certificate (application form FP95)
If you pay for your prescriptions you can save money with a pre-payment certificate (PPC). A 12 month PPC can be paid for either up front in full or by 10 monthly direct debit instalments of £10.40.
A PPC can save money for anyone who needs more than 14 items in 12 months or more than 3 items in three months. For greater convenience, you can apply:
- online at www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk
- by calling the PPC order line on 0845 850 0030
- through a pharmacy registered to sell PPCs