The Department of Health and Social Care has announced new NHS prescription charges in England.

From 1 May 2024, the NHS prescription charge increased to £9.90. The cost of an NHS Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC) is now:

  • £32.05 for three months
  • £114.50 for 12 months (patients can spread the cost and pay in 10 monthly instalments)
  • The cost of an NHS Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) PPC will be £19.80.

Everyone should check if they are entitled to free NHS prescriptions and other help with health costs via the NHS Business Services Authority.

Check if you are eligible for help.

People who pay for their NHS prescriptions could save with a PPC. Rather than paying £9.90 for each prescription, the three- and 12-month PPC covers unlimited NHS prescriptions for the one-off set price. This offers savings for those who need four or more items in three months, or 12 or more items in 12 months.

The quickest way to buy a three- or 12-month PPC is on the PPC page of the NHS Business Services Authority website.

The HRT PPC covers all listed HRT medicines for 12 months. HRT PPCs can be purchased online on the HRT PPC page of the NHS Business Services Authority website or in person at some pharmacies.

Important information from the Department of Health and Social Care about the change to NHS prescription charges and the cost of NHS Prepayment Certificates (PPC).