Important Information About NHS Prescription Charges – From 1st May 2024

We wanted to inform you of upcoming changes to NHS prescription charges set by the Department of Health and Social Care. These changes will take effect from 1st May 2024.

Increase in Prescription Charges:

  • The cost of a single NHS prescription item will increase to £9.90

Prescription Prepayment Certificates (PPCs). PPCs can help you save money on prescriptions if you need multiple medications regularly. The certificate covers all your NHS prescriptions for a set price. PPCs offer savings for those needing any four or more prescription items in three months, or 12 or more items in a year.

The cost of PPCs will also increase to:

  • Three-month PPC: £32.05
  • Twelve-month PPC: £114.50

Before purchasing a PPC, please check if you are entitled to free NHS prescriptions using the NHS eligibility checker HERE

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) PPC. If you use HRT medications, the HRT PPC may be a cost-effective option. The cost of the HRT PPC will also increase to £19.80 on 1st May 2024.

Before purchasing an HRT PPC, please ensure:

  • You are not eligible for free NHS prescriptions (check the eligibility checker above).
  • Your specific HRT medication is covered by the HRT PPC, not all are. To check, click HERE
  • Consider whether a regular 3-month or 12-month PPC might be more suitable, as these cover all NHS prescriptions, not just HRT.

Don’t forget, the NHS App gives people who take regularly prescribed medication a quick, easy, and convenient way to request you next batch of medicine. You can send your request any time of the day or night – no waiting for the surgery to be open, no phone calls and no need for extra trips to the surgery. You can also use a computer or tablet to access the NHS App as well. For more information, visit: HERE

 If you have any queries, then please feel free to contact the surgery via the online form “General Medication Request” – HERE

We understand that these price changes may impact some patients. We have no control over these charges set by the Government, but we are committed to providing you with clear information and resources to help you manage your prescription costs.