Prescription Charges: How Prepayment Certificates Can Save You Money

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Patients who pay for NHS prescriptions may be able to reduce the cost of their medication by using a Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC) rather than paying for each item individually.

Standard NHS Prescription Charges

In England, most adults are required to pay a charge for each prescription item, unless they are exempt. For people who need regular or multiple medications, these costs can quickly add up over the year.

Current Standard Prescription Charges

  • Per item: £9.90 (for each medicine or appliance).
  • 3-Month PPC: £32.05 (covers all items).
  • 12-Month PPC: £114.50 (covers all items).
  • HRT PPC (12-month): £19.80 (for Hormone Replacement Therapy only). 

What Is a Prescription Prepayment Certificate (PPC)?

A Prescription Prepayment Certificate allows you to pay a set amount to cover all your NHS prescriptions for a fixed period. Once you have a PPC, you can receive unlimited NHS prescriptions during that time without paying per item.

PPCs are available as:

  • 12-month certificates, which can be paid for upfront or by monthly direct debit
  • 3-month certificates, suitable for short-term medication needs

For many patients who need more than one prescription item per month, a PPC is significantly cheaper than paying individual prescription charges.

HRT Prescription Prepayment Certificate

If you are prescribed medication for hormone replacement therapy (HRT), you may be eligible for a HRT-specific PPC.

The HRT PPC:

  • Covers all eligible HRT medications
  • Costs less than a standard PPC
  • Can be especially cost-effective if you only need HRT prescriptions

This option was introduced to help reduce costs for patients requiring long-term HRT treatment.

Who Might Benefit from a PPC?

A PPC may be the cheapest option if you:

  • Need two or more prescription items regularly
  • Have a long-term health condition
  • Collect prescriptions every month
  • Are prescribed HRT medication

Even if your medication needs change, having a PPC can provide peace of mind, as you won’t need to worry about prescription costs during the coverage period.

How to Apply

Apply on NHS Business Services Authority

Prescription Prepayment Certificates can be purchased online, by phone, or by post through the NHS Business Services Authority. You will need your NHS number and payment details.