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.
Some items are always free of charge. Contraceptives for example.
Charges for some specialist items such as hosiery and wigs may have a higher charge.
Charges are applied per item on your prescription regardless of the number of packs per item).
Charges apply only in England. In Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales prescriptions are free of charge.
The NHS Website contains Charges and Exemptions information on:
- Current prescription charge rates
- Who can get free prescriptions
- How to save money with a prepayment certificate (available 3 monthly or yearly)
Visit Buy an NHS Prescription Prepayment Certificate (nhsbsa.nhs.uk) or phone 0845 850 0030
