Prescription Fees and Charges

Prescriptions Charges and Exemptions

Extensive exemption and remission arrangements protect those likely to have difficulty in paying charges (NHS prescription and dental charges, optical and hospital travel costs).

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. Prescription prepayment certificates (PPCs) offer real savings for people who need extensive medication.


NHS Charges

The prescription charge has increased by 20 pence from £8.80 to £9 for each medicine or appliance dispensed.

To ensure that those with the greatest need, and who are not already exempt from the charge, are protected we have frozen the cost of the prescription prepayment certificates (PPC) for another year. The 3-month PPC remains at £29.10 and the cost of the annual PPC will stay at £104. Taken together, this means prescription charge income is expected to rise broadly in line with inflation.

Charges for wigs and fabric supports will also be increased in line with inflation. Details of the revised charges for 2019 to 2020 can be found below:


Prescription Charges

  • Single charge: £9
  • 3-month PPC (no change): £29.10 
  • 12-month PPC (no change): £104
  • Wigs and fabric supports
  • Surgical bra: £29.50
  • Abdominal or spinal support: £44.55
  • Stock modacrylic wig: £72.80
  • Partial human hair wig: £192.85
  • Full bespoke human hair wig: £282

These charges apply in England only. In Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales prescriptions are free of charge.

You can view the revised NHS Prescriptions Charges 2018-19

If you will have to pay for four or more prescription items in three months, or more than 14 items in 12 months, you may find it cheaper to buy a PPC.

Telephone advice and order line: 0845 850 0030

General Public – Buy or Renew a PPC Online
There is further information about prescription exemptions and fees on the NHS website