Patients in England who need multiple prescriptions could save over £100 a year with an NHS Prepayment Certificate (PPC), even if they don't claim benefits or have specific health conditions.
How PPCs work
A single NHS prescription costs £9.90 per item. For someone needing two items monthly, that adds up to £237.60 annually. A 12-month PPC costs £114.50, saving £123 a year. The savings increase with each additional item—those with four monthly prescriptions could save over £360 annually.
PPCs cover all NHS prescriptions, including dental prescriptions, regardless of the number of items. However, they don't cover items like wigs or fabric supports.
Types of PPCs and costs
- Three-month PPC: £32.05
- 12-month PPC: £114.50
- HRT PPC: £19.80
The HRT PPC covers unlimited HRT medications for 12 months, even if prescribed for reasons other than menopause symptoms.
Is a PPC right for you?
For those needing just one prescription per month, costs are £29.70 over three months or £118.80 for a year, so a PPC may not always save money and could be more costly in some cases.
People can apply online, and those who paid for prescriptions while awaiting their PPC may be eligible for a refund. Applications can also be made by calling 0300 330 1341, with the certificate valid from the call date. Some pharmacies sell PPCs directly.
