NHS patients urged to check if they can save money on prescriptions with key document

A woman picking up a prescription
-Credit: (Image: Getty)


NHS patients in England who regularly pay for medication have been urged to check if they could save money on their costs. Those requiring multiple prescription items might be able to limit their expenses by obtaining a prescription prepayment certificate (PPC).

Currently, the cost of a prescription item is £9.90 per item and since one prescription can consist of several items, it may be beneficial to see if savings can be made with a PCC. There are two types of PCC available:

  • 3-month PCC costing £32.05 - if more than three prescribed items are needed during this period, you will make a saving

  • 12-month PCC priced at £114.50 - if more than 11 prescribed items are required during this time, savings will be achieved.

Additionally, there's a hormone replacement therapy (HRT) PPC for £19.80 that lasts a year, offering savings if more than two qualifying HRT items are needed in a year. This PCC applies to any type of HRT medicine required, including for conditions other than menopause symptoms.

A PCC can be purchased online, effective from the day of application. Alternatively, a PCC can be applied for by calling the order line on 0300 330 1341, with the PCC valid from the day of the call.

It's also worth noting that some pharmacies can sell a 3-month PPC or the HRT PPC, which will be valid from the day of purchase. Refunds can be obtained on any medication bought while waiting for the PCC to arrive.

But it's also worth checking if you don't need to pay anything for your NHS prescriptions. They are universally free in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.

In England, people who meet these categories can get their prescriptions free of charge:

  • Are under 16

  • Are aged 16 to 18 and in full-time education

  • Are pregnant or have had a baby in the previous 12 months

  • Are registered disabled and are unable to go out

  • Have a war pension exemption certificate

  • Are an NHS inpatient

  • Receive Income Support

  • Receive income-based Jobseeker's Allowance

  • Receive income-related Employment and Support Allowance

  • Receive Pension Credit Guarantee Credit

  • Receive Universal Credit (UC) and their earnings during their last assessment period were £435 or less, or £935 or less if their UC includes an element for a child or they have limited capability for work

  • Own a valid NHS tax credit exemption certificate

  • Receive a valid NHS certificate for full help with health costs (HC2)

  • Have certain illnesses including cancer and epilepsy

  • Are aged 60 or over